Bowls of Comfort: Three Recipes for a Healthier You

January is National Soup Month, making it the perfect time to cozy up with a bowl of something warm and nourishing. According to the American Heart Association, choosing soups with vegetables, low-sodium broth and lean proteins is a smart way to eat healthier while limiting saturated fat. Picking healthier ingredients instead of creamy or salty ones is an easy way to support heart health during the holidays.

Tuscan Bean Soup

Tuscan bean soup is comforting and packed with nutrients. The beans and vegetables provide plenty of fiber and protein to keep you feeling full. This recipe is a simple way to enjoy a heart healthy meal that warms you from the inside out. 

Ingredients: 

1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 small red onion (chopped)
1 medium celery (chopped)
1 medium garlic clove (minced)
2 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
15.5 ounces canned, no-salt-added Great Northern beans (rinsed, drained)
14.5 ounces canned, no-salt-added, diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (crumbled)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (crumbled)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups spinach
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For more recipes visit, AmericanHeartAssociation.com. 

Chicken Tortilla Soup

This lighter take on a classic chicken tortilla soup brings big flavor with a heart-healthy twist. Made with lean chicken, beans and a tomato-based broth, it's both filling and low in saturated fat. Top it with fresh lime or avocado slices for a nutritious meal that's perfect for busy winter nights. 

Ingredients: 

1-pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn (thawed)
2 cups fat-free, no-salt-added chicken broth
14.5 ounces canned, no-salt-added, diced tomatoes (undrained)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon ancho powder
2 medium garlic cloves (minced)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Two 6-inch corn tortillas (cut into 1/4-inch-wide strips, plus)
One 6-inch corn tortilla (torn into pieces)
2 to 4 tablespoons snipped, fresh cilantro
1/4 cup finely chopped avocado
1/4 medium red bell pepper (cut into matchstick-size strips)

For more recipes visit, AmericanHeartAssociation.com. 

Carrot Soup with Coriander

This carrot soup with coriander is a simple recipe that supports heart and skin health. The carrots are rich in antioxidants, while the coriander adds warmth and deep flavor. It's a great way to stay cozy while nourishing your body this season. 

Ingredients: 

2 teaspoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
1 small onion (chopped)
2 medium garlic cloves (chopped)
1 tablespoon ground coriander plus 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1-pound carrots (cut into 1-inch pieces)
2 1/2 cups water
1 cup fresh orange juice
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup fat-free sour cream
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped, fresh cilantro

For more recipes visit, AmericanHeartAssociation.com.