Broth-based soups are an easy way to fill up without adding significant calories to your diet. Adding a variety of delicious vegetable soups to your meals can help you slim down, lower your total calorie count and even get you eating more fiber, vitamins and minerals. Keep a healthy vegetable soup in your fridge as a starter, lunch or even a quick and smart dinner choice.
Broth
The key to a soup that is both healthy and delicious starts in the broth. Opt for a flavorful chicken, beef or vegetable stock for your soup. Add herbs, spices, garlic, onions and other aromatics for a better flavor. You can use homemade or purchased broths, but keep in mind that many purchased broths are high in sodium. Choose a reduced sodium or salt-free broth if you have concerns.
Getting Started
You should start a low-calorie weight loss soup the way you would any other. Saute aromatics and slow cooking vegetables, but opt for nonstick cooking spray instead of butter or oil. Depending upon your soup, you may want to add some seasonings at this stage, particularly if you're using curry, cumin, coriander or other Indian style spices. Once the garlic, onions, carrots, celery or other aromatics are soft, add broth to your stockpot.
Adding the Vegetables
Weight loss soups don't have to be boring. Choose your favorites to customize a soup you'll enjoy. You can add canned or fresh tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans or squash to your soup. Once the veggies are cooked through, toss in chopped greens, ranging from spinach and kale to affordable cabbage. Keep the total carbohydrate count low by skipping potatoes, rice and other starches in your soup.
Finishing Your Soup
While your soup won't taste bad at this point, it can be a bit dull. Add salt and pepper to taste, as well as any other seasonings you like. You can brighten the flavor with a bit of lemon or lime juice, or a splash of balsamic or wine vinegar. If you'd prefer a smooth soup, puree the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender before serving. Broth-based soups are an ideal addition to a low-calorie diet, but if you're planning soup as a meal, consider adding some cooked chicken, beans, or another protein source to keep you full longer.
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