Are you looking for delicious and satisfying meals that won't derail your weight loss goals? Look no further! Soup is a fantastic choice for healthy eating, offering a fantastic way to incorporate plenty of vegetables and lean protein into your diet. These Weight Watchers soup recipes are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making healthy eating a joy, not a chore. Get ready to discover some quick dinner ideas that are perfect for busy weeknights and will leave you feeling full and energized.
Creamy Tomato Soup (Low SmartPoints)
This creamy tomato soup recipe is a perfect example of how satisfying and delicious healthy food can be. It's incredibly low in SmartPoints, making it a guilt-free addition to your Weight Watchers meal plan.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup nonfat Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions:
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, and oregano to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you desire a creamier texture, stir in the nonfat Greek yogurt. Blend with an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a regular blender until smooth (be cautious when blending hot liquids).
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Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes before adding them to the soup.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- This soup is even better the next day! The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Mediterranean Tomato Soup: Add chopped fresh parsley, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Hearty Tomato Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without yogurt):
- Calories: Approximately 100
- SmartPoints: Varies depending on your plan, but generally very low.
Chicken and Vegetable Soup (High Protein, Low Fat)
This hearty chicken and vegetable soup is bursting with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect healthy meal option. It's high in protein and low in fat, supporting your weight loss journey while satisfying your hunger.
This recipe is another example of delicious and easy recipes perfect for busy weeknights. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
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Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli, green beans, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips:
- You can use any vegetables you like in this soup. Zucchini, corn, or peas would all be delicious additions.
- For extra flavor, add a bay leaf while simmering and remove before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Lemon Chicken Soup: Add the juice of half a lemon before serving.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- SmartPoints: Varies depending on your plan, but generally moderate.
These are just two examples of the many delicious and healthy soup recipes that are perfect for those following a Weight Watchers plan. Remember to always consult your personal Weight Watchers program for specific SmartPoints values and dietary guidance. Enjoy your healthy and flavorful meals!