Vegetable Soup(Lo-Cal)
A light, flavorful vegetable soup with tomato base and fresh vegetables, perfect for a healthy, low-calorie meal suitable for vegetarians and those watching their intake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomato juice, pepper, oregano, and salt in a large kettle. Bring to a boil.
- Add 4 cups of your choice of vegetables from the list. Cover the kettle.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding beans or lentils for protein. You can substitute the fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes if they're out of season. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can enhance the flavor, and feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences. This soup is versatile, allowing you to use leftover vegetables from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vegetable soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad, like the Best Coleslaw Ever, for a refreshing crunch. This soup also makes a great starter for a cozy dinner or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover vegetable soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Soup(Lo-Cal) contains roughly 50 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (158% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1770mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a convenient option and work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the soup during the cooking process, and they will cook through as the soup simmers. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are heated thoroughly.
Is this vegetable soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This vegetable soup is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a great choice for anyone following vegan recipes, and you can customize it further by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adjusting to your desired spice level. This can elevate the flavor profile while maintaining the soup's delicious base.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).