8 Healthy Soup Recipes for Winter to Keep You Warm

As winter’s chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, steaming bowl of soup to warm your body and soul. That’s why we’ve gathered eight healthy and comforting soup recipes that are perfect for keeping you warm and satisfied during the cold winter months. From classic favorites like chicken noodle and tomato soup to creative spins like butternut squash and hearty minestrone, these recipes will not only thaw you out but also provide essential nutrients to keep you energized and nourished.

Each of these recipes combines wholesome ingredients, aromatic spices, and a touch of love to create bowls of pure comfort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty lunch, or a soul-soothing remedy when under the weather, our collection has something for everyone. So, get your soup pot ready, ladle out a serving, and let these savory, piping-hot concoctions become your go-to winter companions. Embrace the season and stay cozy with these delightful and nutritious creations.

Healthy Soup Recipes for Winter

Embrace the winter chill with our collection of nourishing and flavorful soup recipes, designed to keep you warm and satisfied all season long.

1. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, a timeless and soothing dish that brings warmth and nourishment during chilly winter days or whenever comfort is needed. This soup combines tender pieces of chicken, vegetables, and delicate noodles swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. The aromatic blend of onions, garlic, and herbs infuses every spoonful with a comforting aroma.

Whether you’re under the weather or simply craving a heartwarming meal, this soup has a magical way of providing comfort, as well as essential nutrients. It’s a staple in many households for good reason, offering a familiar, satisfying taste that brings solace and satisfaction with every bite. Whether homemade or enjoyed at a local diner, Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a delightful reminder that simple, wholesome ingredients can create a bowl of pure, nurturing goodness.

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Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups egg noodles (or your choice of pasta)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing your ingredients. If you’re using chicken breasts or thighs, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken whole and shred it later.
2. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Sauté for an additional minute to release their flavors.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once it’s boiling, add the chicken pieces or the whole chicken if you’re planning to shred it later. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center (about 15-20 minutes for chicken pieces, or longer for a whole chicken).
6. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.
7. Add the egg noodles or your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until they’re tender.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that the amount of salt needed may vary depending on the saltiness of your chicken broth.
9. Remove the bay leaf, and your Chicken Noodle Soup is ready to serve.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

2. Hearty Minestrone Soup

Hearty Minestrone Soup is a rustic Italian masterpiece that embodies comfort and wholesome flavor. This soup is a harmonious medley of vibrant vegetables, beans, and pasta, simmered in a robust tomato-based broth. Its name, “Minestrone,” reflects its origins in the Italian word “minestra,” meaning soup. The richness of the broth, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, complements the colorful array of ingredients, making it a flavorful and satisfying choice for cold winter days or anytime you need a hearty, nutritious meal.

Whether you’re seeking a bowl of warmth after a long day or nourishment to invigorate your senses, this soup offers both with a generous serving of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Hearty Minestrone Soup is a culinary journey through the Italian countryside, delivering a comforting taste of tradition and a promise of heartwarming satisfaction in every spoonful.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, vegetable or chicken broth, and water. Add the dried basil and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
5. Add the pasta to the soup and cook until it’s tender, following the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes).
6. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the amount of salt needed can vary depending on the saltiness of your broth.
7. Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach or kale and allow it to wilt into the soup.
8. Serve the Hearty Minestrone Soup hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup is a velvety, slightly sweet delight that captures the essence of fall and warmth in a bowl. This soup is crafted from the natural richness of roasted butternut squash, harmoniously blended with a blend of aromatic spices and seasonings. The result is a silky, thick, and flavorful concoction that’s both comforting and nourishing, making it a perfect choice for chilly autumn evenings or any time you crave a taste of pure coziness.

Its vibrant orange color is as inviting as its flavor, and the subtle sweetness of the squash is enhanced by hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or a hearty main course, Creamy Butternut Squash Soup is a versatile classic that brings together the earthy comfort of roasted vegetables with the silky texture of cream, creating a bowl of seasonal bliss for your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped butternut squash, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth to cover the vegetables. Add the ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches), puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy.
6. Return the pureed soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream, and gently heat the soup over low heat.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve the Creamy Butternut Squash Soup hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

4. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup is a beloved classic that offers a symphony of flavors in a single bowl. This soup is a celebration of the rich, tangy essence of ripe tomatoes, accentuated by the fresh and aromatic notes of basil. Each spoonful is a journey through a garden of vibrant, sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves, invoking a sense of comfort and contentment. The depth of its flavors is enhanced with a touch of oregano and garlic, creating a harmony that is as inviting as it is satisfying.

Whether served as a starter, paired with a grilled cheese sandwich, or as a standalone meal, Tomato Basil Soup provides a warm and familiar embrace, perfect for warding off the cold of winter or simply indulging in the joy of pure, homemade goodness. This soup is a timeless testament to the power of simplicity, showcasing that a few quality ingredients can create a masterpiece of taste and comfort.

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 ounces total) diced tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes if available)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chopped fresh basil (or dried basil), dried oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for about 20-25 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
5. If you prefer a creamy tomato basil soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender to puree it.
6. Return the pureed soup to the pot, and stir in the heavy cream if desired. Gently heat the soup over low heat.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, if needed.
8. Serve the Tomato Basil Soup hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

5. Lentil and Spinach Soup

Lentil and Spinach Soup is a wholesome and comforting bowl that brings together the earthy richness of lentils with the vibrant freshness of spinach. This soup is a hearty blend of protein-packed lentils and a generous dose of leafy green goodness. The lentils add a satisfying texture and a nutty, earthy flavor, while the spinach provides a burst of green vitality and a hint of brightness.

The aromatic spices and seasonings, such as cumin and coriander, infuse this soup with warmth and depth, making it an ideal choice for nourishment on a cold winter day. Whether you’re in search of a filling meal or simply a comforting bowl of warmth, Lentil and Spinach Soup serves both purposes. It embodies the essence of balanced nutrition and the heartiness of a home-cooked meal, inviting you to savor a world of flavor with every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of one lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by rinsing and draining the lentils.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft.
3. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and ground paprika. Allow the spices to toast for about a minute to release their flavors.
5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
7. Stir in the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt into the soup.
8. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
9. Serve the Lentil and Spinach Soup hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.

6. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and indulgent delight that marries the wholesomeness of broccoli with the irresistible richness of cheddar cheese. This soup is a harmonious union of velvety smoothness and a touch of nutty, cheesy goodness, resulting in a comforting dish that’s perfect for warming up during chilly winter days. The tender, bright green florets of broccoli are gently simmered to create a soup that boasts both flavor and nourishment.

The addition of cheddar cheese adds a luscious creaminess, transforming a simple vegetable into a culinary masterpiece. Whether enjoyed as a comforting appetizer or a hearty main course, this soup satisfies cravings for both warmth and flavor. The texture is as velvety as it is cheesy, and the comforting aroma is nothing short of inviting. Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a timeless favorite, cherished for its simplicity, and celebrated for its ability to turn a handful of ingredients into a bowl of pure, cheesy comfort.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Croutons for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the dried thyme, dried mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the whole milk or half-and-half with the all-purpose flour, whisking until smooth.
6. Gradually stir the milk-flour mixture into the soup, continuing to cook and stir until the soup thickens.
7. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and the soup is creamy.
8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
9. Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, optionally garnished with croutons for added texture and flavor.

7. Moroccan Harira Soup

Moroccan Harira Soup is a fragrant and hearty masterpiece that captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine in a single bowl. This soup is a flavorful blend of tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and a medley of aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection. Harira is an iconic soup often enjoyed during Ramadan, and it has become a symbol of comfort and nourishment in Moroccan culture.

The harmony of flavors comes from spices like cumin, ginger, and cinnamon, infusing every spoonful with a symphony of warmth. Whether you savor it as a meal on its own or as a side dish, Moroccan Harira Soup offers a tantalizing journey through the heart of North African culinary tradition, where every sip reveals a world of rich and savory taste. It’s a soothing embrace of both tradition and flavor, making it a perfect choice for cold winter days or any time you need a dose of hearty, Moroccan-inspired warmth.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup chickpeas, cooked (canned or pre-cooked)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of one lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup vermicelli or broken angel hair pasta

Instructions:

1. Rinse and drain the red lentils, and ensure the chickpeas are cooked and ready to use.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and soft.
3. Stir in the ground cumin, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground turmeric, ground coriander, and ground paprika. Let the spices toast for about a minute to release their flavors.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red lentils, chickpeas, and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in the fresh cilantro, fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Add the vermicelli or broken angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s tender.
8. Serve the Moroccan Harira Soup hot. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs for extra flavor.

8. Thai Coconut Curry Soup

Thai Coconut Curry Soup is an exotic and aromatic masterpiece that embodies the complex and harmonious flavors of Thai cuisine. This soup is a fragrant blend of creamy coconut milk, a fiery Thai red curry paste, and an array of fresh, colorful ingredients. It’s a culinary journey through the streets of Thailand, where the zesty lemongrass, pungent garlic, and the heat of chili peppers combine to create a taste sensation that’s both comforting and adventurous.

Whether served with chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this soup offers a perfect balance of creaminess and spiciness, enhanced with the natural sweetness of coconut. Thai Coconut Curry Soup provides a satisfying warmth that perfectly complements the chill of winter or adds a touch of excitement to any meal. It’s a delightful escape to the vibrant world of Thai flavors, where each spoonful invites you to savor a fusion of creamy, spicy, and aromatic notes that never cease to delight the senses.

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or fish sauce (for an authentic taste)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cups diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup baby corn, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Juice of one lime
• Fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or rice noodles (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and soft.
2. Stir in the Thai red curry paste and cook for an additional minute to release its flavors.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Add the soy sauce or fish sauce and brown sugar. Adjust these ingredients to your taste, keeping in mind the saltiness and sweetness you prefer.
5. If you’re adding protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu), include it now and cook until it’s cooked through.
6. Add the sliced red bell pepper, carrot, mushrooms, and baby corn to the soup. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Stir in the lime juice to brighten the flavors.
8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce, fish sauce, or sugar as desired.
9. Serve the Thai Coconut Curry Soup hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves. You can also serve it over cooked rice or rice noodles for a more substantial meal.

Benefits of Winter Soups

Winter soups not only offer a delicious and comforting way to warm up on chilly days but also come with a host of nutritional and practical benefits that can enhance your overall well-being during the colder months. Here are some key advantages of indulging in winter soups:

• Warming and Comforting: Winter soups provide a natural warmth that can help you combat the cold weather. The steam rising from a bowl of hot soup can be both physically and psychologically comforting.

• Hydration: Soups are hydrating, helping you maintain proper fluid intake when you might not feel as thirsty in the winter. The broth and water content in soups contribute to your daily hydration needs.

• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Winter soups often feature a variety of seasonal vegetables, such as butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and kale, which are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your immune system.

• Fiber and Satiety: The combination of vegetables, legumes, and sometimes whole grains in soups provides dietary fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied. This can prevent overeating and weight gain during the winter months.

• Immune Support: Many winter soup ingredients, like garlic, ginger, and turmeric, contain natural compounds that are believed to support the immune system and can help fend off winter illnesses.

• Digestive Aid: The warmth of soups can soothe the digestive system and make it easier to absorb nutrients from the ingredients, particularly if you’re consuming lots of winter produce.

The Bottom Line

In the depths of winter, there’s no better way to chase away the chill than with a steaming bowl of soup. Our collection of “8 Healthy Soup Recipes for Winter to Keep You Warm” is designed to not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body, providing a comforting and nutritious respite from the cold. These soups offer a delightful fusion of seasonal ingredients, aromatic herbs, and wholesome goodness that’s sure to warm your heart and soul. So, don your coziest sweater, grab your favorite soup pot, and embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of winter.

With a soup for every palate, from classic Chicken Noodle to exotic Thai Coconut Curry, our recipes make winter dining a true pleasure. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also packed with the vitamins, minerals, and fiber your body craves in colder months. Whether you’re seeking comfort, immune support, or just a taste of tradition, our soups have you covered.

FAQs

Can I freeze these soups for later use?

Yes, most of these soups can be frozen in airtight containers for later consumption. Be sure to cool them down before freezing, and they’ll be perfect for reheating on busy days.

Are these recipes suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?

Absolutely! Many of the recipes offer variations and ingredient substitutions to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets. Simply adapt the recipes to your preferences.

Can I substitute ingredients to fit my dietary restrictions?

Of course! Our recipes are versatile, and we encourage you to make ingredient substitutions to suit your dietary needs. For example, swap dairy with non-dairy alternatives, and adjust seasonings as necessary.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover soup?

To reheat, place the soup in a pot on the stovetop or microwave it in a microwave-safe container. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Be sure to consume reheated soup within a safe timeframe.