There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a homemade soup on a chilly evening, especially when it fills you up and nourishes you. Did you know that a hearty bowl of this Weight Loss Soup | High Protein Soup Recipe packs a whopping 30 grams of protein per serving? This savory and colorful soup, with its rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with fresh vegetables, will delight your senses and keep you satisfied. So, let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Weight Loss Soup | High Protein Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: High Protein, Low Calorie
Description
A hearty and nourishing protein-packed soup filled with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp Avocado Oil
- 1 Yellow Onion, chopped
- 2 tsp Garlic, minced
- 2 lbs Ground Turkey (or ground chicken)
- 2 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 8 cups Chicken Broth
- 2 cups Carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup Celery, chopped
- 1 cup Green Beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups Sweet Potato, peeled and cubed
- 1.5 cups Cabbage, shredded
- 1 28 oz Can of Diced Tomatoes
- 1 14.5 oz Can of Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1–2 cups Zucchini, sliced and cut into fourths
- Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, add the avocado oil.
- Once the oil is heated, add the onions and sauté until slightly soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for 1-2 more minutes.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until fully done, breaking it into smaller pieces.
- Add the Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low-medium and add the carrots and celery; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the green beans, sweet potato, and cabbage; simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and zucchini; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
Notes
For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup and mix it back in. Add lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why This Weight Loss Soup Works Wonders
Let’s face it: Our lives are busy, and finding time to whip up something healthy can feel challenging. This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and versatile enough to cater to various taste preferences. If you’re on a mission to shed a few pounds while still enjoying flavorful meals, this soup is for you. It’s a complete package, marrying lean protein with vibrant veggies, giving your body the fuel it needs without unnecessary calories.
The Essentials
Here’s what you’ll need to create this protein-packed soup:
- 2 Tbsp Avocado Oil: For sautéing and healthy fats.
- 1 Yellow Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 tsp Garlic, minced: For that aromatic kick.
- 2 lbs Ground Turkey (or ground chicken): Your protein powerhouse.
- 2 Tbsp Italian Seasoning: A blend that makes everything taste better.
- 2 tsp Sea Salt: To enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: A flavor booster.
- 1 tsp Paprika: For a mild smoky depth.
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper: A hint of heat.
- 8 C. Chicken Broth: The soup’s flavorful base.
- 2 C. Carrots, peeled and chopped: Sweetness and crunch.
- 1 C. Celery, chopped: Adds texture and freshness.
- 1 C. Green Beans, cut into 2-inch pieces: For a satisfying bite.
- 2 C. Sweet Potato, peeled and cubed: Nutrient-dense and sweet.
- 1.5 C. Cabbage, shredded: A perfect, crunchy addition.
- 1 28 oz Can of Diced Tomatoes: For acidity and substance.
- 1 14.5 oz Can of Chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Extra protein and fiber.
- 1-2 C. Zucchini, sliced and cut into fourths: A low-calorie filler.
- Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish: A touch of freshness to finish.
Let’s Cook
In a large soup pot over medium heat, add the avocado oil.
1. Once the oil is heated, add the onions and sauté until slightly soft and translucent.
2. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for 1-2 more minutes, letting that wonderful aroma fill your kitchen.
3. Next, add the ground turkey and cook until it’s fully done, breaking it up into smaller pieces.
4. Add the Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne, and cook for 2-3 more minutes, ensuring the spices coat the meat evenly.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low-medium and start adding the carrots and celery; let them simmer for 10 minutes until just tender.
7. Next, add the green beans, sweet potato, and cabbage.
8. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are slightly soft.
9. Lastly, stir in the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and zucchini.
10. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the zucchini is soft, but not mushy.
11. When ready to serve, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Nutrition Breakdown
This soup packs quite a nutritional punch, with each serving coming in at a heart-healthy 350 calories. You’ll find about 30 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbs, 10 grams of fat, and a whopping 8 grams of fiber. This high-fiber content not only helps keep you full longer but also aids in digestion. So while you savor each spoonful, know that it’s doing wonders for your body too.
Perfect Pairings
This soup shines when served warm with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or alongside a light salad. Picture a cozy dinner during the fall or winter months, where you can enjoy a steaming bowl while wrapped in a blanket, watching the leaves swirl outside your window. It’s not just food; it’s an experience. And for those special occasions, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top for crunch!
How to Store It Right
Storing this hearty soup is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to extend its life even longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in a covered bowl for 3-5 minutes. A quick tip: adding a splash of broth during reheating helps restore its original consistency.
Expert Tips
- For a creamier soup, blend half of it after cooking, then mix it back in.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking; if you enjoy heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Incorporating seasonal veggies like kale or butternut squash can elevate the dish.
- For those following low-carb diets, you could replace sweet potatoes with turnips or cauliflower.
Flavor Experiments
Feel free to get a little wild with flavors! For a seasonal twist, try adding pumpkin puree and cinnamon in the fall for a warm, autumnal vibe. Want something gourmet? A splash of white wine during the cooking process can elevate sophistication. Finally, for a playful update, toss in a handful of frozen peas at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
Learn from My Mistakes
- Overcooking Veggies: Don’t let your vegetables turn mushy! Add them in stages so they maintain their texture.
- Bland Flavor: If your soup tastes flat, remember to check your seasoning throughout cooking.
- Skipping the Sauté: Always sauté your aromatics first! It’s where those gorgeous flavors begin.
- Not Letting It Simmer: Simmering helps develop flavors. Don’t rush this step.
- Poor Storage Choices: Using non-airtight containers can lead to freezer burn. Make sure your containers are sealed tightly.
What to Do with Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra soup, there are clever ways to utilize those leftovers! 1. Transform it into a hearty sauce for a pasta bake; just add cooked pasta and bake it for a comforting casserole. 2. Blend it into a creamy soup by adding a splash of cream, perfect for a lunch option. 3. Use the soup as a base for a grain bowl, adding a scoop of quinoa and your favorite greens for a wholesome meal.
Curious Cooks Ask
Can I use different proteins in this soup? Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based proteins can be swapped in with excellent results—just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make it vegetarian? Just swap the ground turkey for lentils or your favorite meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to include anything on hand like bell peppers, corn, or spinach. Each addition brings unique flavors and nutrition.
Is this soup good for freezing? Yes! This soup freezes beautifully—just ensure it’s in an airtight container and consume within three months for the best taste.