Low calorie soups can provide nourishment and fulfillment for those on a diet or who need to meet various dietary restrictions. Options for low calorie soup include those with a focus on vegetables, lean proteins, and beans. Low calorie soups often have other healthy qualities, such as being low in sodium and low in fat.
Those on a diet may find the addition of a low calorie soup to the menu a satisfying and filling alternative to foods loaded with calories and fat. Dieters and those keeping an eye on various other dietary restrictions can enjoy a wide variety of seasonal and traditional soups at any time. When served with a salad, low calorie soups can provide a complete meal. Soups can also be portioned out for quick and easy meals on-the-go for work and school.
Vegetable soups made with fresh vegetables and low calorie broths and other ingredients are a staple in many households. Popular low calorie vegetable-based soups include those made from broccoli, cauliflower, and tomato. Other options include soups made from butternut squash, asparagus, and zucchini.
Lean proteins mix well with other low calorie, high nutrition ingredients to provide other options for someone looking to include low calorie soups in their diet. Stews made with lean cuts of beef, vegetables, and low calorie broths are good options. For additional variety, the lean cuts of beef can be switched with chicken or seafood, such as shrimp or clams. Limiting the use of cream-based soups is the key to keeping stew and chowder recipes low in calories.
Soups made with beans are another option for individuals and families seeking out low calorie soups to include on lunch or dinner menus. Black bean soups and other bean soups can fit well with both a vegetarian and a low calorie diet. Some recipes featuring beans, such as white bean chili, combine beans with other healthy low-fat options such as chicken and vegetables for a filling and satisfying meal. The addition of rice or couscous can help bulk up a bean soup.
Virtually any low calorie soup can be cooked in a way to fit a variety of healthy lifestyle choices. Low sodium broths can be used in recipes calling for chicken, vegetable, or beef broths to help reduce the sodium content for those watching their salt intake. Tofu can be substituted in soups calling for beef or other meats for those interested in maintaining a vegetarian diet while enjoying low calorie soup options.