Winter season demands warmth and comfort food, and nothing beats a bowl of hot soup on a chilly day. This vegetarian soup packs a healthy punch with its high protein content.
: Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 cups chopped butternut squash
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
: Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Add the cumin and coriander and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the butternut squash and kale, and stir for a few minutes until the kale is wilted.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender.
- Add the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
: Benefits
This protein-packed vegetarian soup is rich in nutrients and low in calories, making it an excellent meal choice during winter season:.
- Butternut squash: Rich in vitamins A and C, and high in dietary fiber, butternut squash helps improve gut health and boost the immune system.
- Kale: A superfood, kale is packed with nutrients such as iron and vitamin K that help reduce inflammation and support a healthy heart.
- Black beans: High in protein and fiber, black beans help regulate blood sugar levels and improve heart health.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, tomatoes help protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
: Variations
Get creative with this healthy soup recipe by experimenting with different ingredients:.
- Switch out butternut squash for sweet potatoes or pumpkin.
- Use spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale.
- Add some heat by including chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added flavor.
: Conclusion
This protein-packed vegetarian soup is the perfect meal during the winter season, providing warmth and comfort while nourishing the body with essential nutrients. Experiment with different variations to find your favorite combination!.