Are you looking for delicious and healthy meals that fit your Weight Watchers plan? Do you crave comforting food but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup recipe is a perfect example of a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that's also incredibly healthy. It's packed with flavor, low in points, and ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend lunch. This recipe is a shining example of how easy homemade cooking can be, even when following a specific diet plan like Weight Watchers. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup light coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the "sauté" function. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a deep flavor base for your soup.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, coconut milk, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Pressure cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "sealing." Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
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Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the Instant Pot. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches (be cautious of hot liquids!).
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor: Use roasted tomatoes instead of canned. Roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes before adding them to the Instant Pot.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Thicken the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply simmer it uncovered on the "sauté" function for a few minutes after blending. The coconut milk already adds a lovely creaminess.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini. Add them along with the onions in step 1.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Add protein: Cooked lentils or chickpeas make a great addition for extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Weight Watchers Points: Varies depending on your specific plan and the ingredients used. Consult your Weight Watchers app or website for an accurate points calculation.
This Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Soup is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious. It’s a perfect recipe to add to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy this simple, flavorful, and satisfying soup! It's a great option for those following healthy eating plans, demonstrating how easy healthy meals can be. This recipe perfectly showcases the benefits of using an Instant Pot for making delicious and convenient food.