Nothing beats a steamy bowl of soup when you crave something both soothing and nourishing. All sixty-five recipes below focus on whole-food ingredients, trimmed-down sodium, and sensible portions of healthy fats. Many freeze well, so you can stash leftovers for busy days. Grab your favorite pot and let’s get simmering.
Contents
- 1. Bright Green Spinach & White Bean Soup
- 2. Classic Chicken & Kale Detox Soup
- 3. Gingered Carrot Coconut Soup
- 4. Tomato Basil Quinoa Soup
- 5. Turmeric Lentil & Sweet Potato Soup
- 6. Broccoli Almond Soup
- 7. Miso Mushroom & Bok Choy Soup
- 8. Roasted Red Pepper & Chickpea Soup
- 9. Butternut Squash Apple Soup
- 10. Lemon Orzo Garden Soup
- 11. Cauliflower Curry Soup
- 12. Zucchini & Basil Pistou Soup
- 13. Spiced Pumpkin Black Bean Soup
- 14. Parsnip Pear Soup
- 15. Chicken Zoodle Pho-Inspired Soup
- 16. Tuscan Farro & Kale Soup
- 17. Cabbage Roll Soup
- 18. Salmon & Sweet Corn Chowder
- 19. Greek Avgolemono with Brown Rice
- 20. Thai-Inspired Shrimp & Spinach Soup
- 21. Pea & Mint Spring Soup
- 22. Smoky Split Pea & Carrot Soup
- 23. Mexican Black Bean & Lime Soup
- 24. Golden Beet & Fennel Soup
- 25. Rustic Vegetable Barley Soup
- 26. Coconut Curry Pumpkin Lentil Soup
- 27. Turmeric Cauliflower Rice Soup
- 28. Celery Root & Green Apple Soup
- 29. Hearty Mushroom Wild Rice Soup
- 30. Tomato Tortilla Soup
- 31. Spinach Artichoke Soup
- 32. Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Dhal Soup
- 33. Mediterranean Chickpea & Lemon Soup
- 34. Korean-Inspired Kimchi Tofu Soup
- 35. Herbed Turkey & Veggie Soup
- 36. Creamy Cannellini & Rosemary Soup
- 37. Summer Squash & Corn Soup
- 38. Detox Green Pea & Kale Soup
- 39. Red Curry Cod & Veggie Soup
- 40. Vegetable Minestrone with Pesto Drizzle
- 41. Roasted Garlic & Cauliflower Soup
- 42. Ginger Lemongrass Chicken Soup
- 43. Spicy Tomato & White Bean Soup
- 44. Carrot Ginger Turmeric Soup
- 45. Root Vegetable & Lentil Stew Soup
- 46. Tarragon Mushroom Soup
- 47. Quinoa Chili Soup
- 48. Light Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- 49. Soba Noodle & Edamame Soup
- 50. Lemon Dill Turkey Meatball Soup
- 51. Moroccan Chickpea & Spinach Soup
- 52. Pearl Couscous & Vegetable Soup
- 53. Creamy Pumpkin Sage Soup
- 54. Sweet Corn & Potato Chowder
- 55. Green Detox Soup with Avocado Swirl
- 56. Shrimp & Coconut Lime Soup
- 57. Red Lentil & Tomato Soup
- 58. Kale & White Bean Sausage Soup
- 59. Roasted Cauliflower & Parsnip Soup
- 60. Sriracha Chicken & Brown Rice Soup
- 61. Bean & Greens Soup with Parmesan Rind
- 62. Spiced Carrot & Red Pepper Soup
- 63. Mulligatawny-Inspired Apple Curry Soup
- 64. Sesame Ginger Udon Veggie Soup
- 65. Winter Vegetable Stew with Herbs de Provence
1. Bright Green Spinach & White Bean Soup

Blended baby spinach turns this soup a cheery emerald shade without a drop of food coloring. Cannellini beans add creaminess and plant-based protein, while a splash of lemon keeps the flavors lively. Finish each bowl with cracked black pepper and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Serve alongside whole-grain toast for a complete meal.
2. Classic Chicken & Kale Detox Soup

This light soup relies on lots of vegetables, lean chicken breast, and fresh herbs. Simmering the bones for an hour yields a clean, mineral-rich stock. Kale leaves go in during the last few minutes so they stay bright and just tender. A sprinkle of parsley before serving adds a fresh pop.
3. Gingered Carrot Coconut Soup

Fresh ginger and a touch of lime zest lift sweet roasted carrots and light coconut milk. The result is velvety without needing heavy cream. Blend until silky smooth, then reheat gently to preserve the fragrant oils. A spoonful of toasted pumpkin seeds delivers crunch.
4. Tomato Basil Quinoa Soup

Quinoa thickens this soup and adds a complete protein punch. Crushed fire-roasted tomatoes provide natural smokiness with no added sugar. Simmer the quinoa directly in the broth so it absorbs every drop of flavor. Finish with a swirl of good balsamic vinegar for brightness.
5. Turmeric Lentil & Sweet Potato Soup

Yellow split lentils cook quickly and melt into a silky base enriched with anti-inflammatory turmeric. Cubes of sweet potato hold their shape, creating pleasant texture. A pinch of cayenne balances the natural sweetness. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
6. Broccoli Almond Soup

Steamed broccoli florets blend with blanched almonds for a dairy-free yet creamy finish. A little nutritional yeast provides subtle cheesiness and extra B vitamins. Keep the seasoning simple—just sea salt, white pepper, and lemon juice. Pair with a side salad for extra greens.
7. Miso Mushroom & Bok Choy Soup

Mellow white miso enriches vegetable broth and brings gut-friendly probiotics. Shiitake and cremini mushrooms supply umami depth without added fat. Baby bok choy delivers crunch and vitamin C. Serve piping hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
8. Roasted Red Pepper & Chickpea Soup

Charred red peppers lend smokiness, while puréed chickpeas make the base creamy. A hint of smoked paprika reinforces the roasted flavor. Keep the broth light by using low-sodium vegetable stock. Serve with whole-wheat pita triangles for dipping.
9. Butternut Squash Apple Soup

A tart apple balances the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. A small splash of cider vinegar sharpens the flavor without overwhelming it. Blend until velvety, then rewarm and grate fresh nutmeg over each portion. Toasted pepitas add crunch and zinc.
10. Lemon Orzo Garden Soup

Tiny orzo noodles cook quickly and make the broth pleasantly starchy. Fresh zucchini, peas, and carrots supply color and vitamins. Finish with generous lemon juice and chopped dill for a spring-like aroma. This one tastes even better the next day.
11. Cauliflower Curry Soup

Light coconut milk and a spoonful of red curry paste turn humble cauliflower into something special. Roast the florets first to deepen flavor and caramelize edges. Blend half the soup for body, leaving some chunks for bite. Top with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
12. Zucchini & Basil Pistou Soup

Inspired by Provençal soupe au pistou, this version keeps things lighter by skipping pasta. Zucchini, tomatoes, and white beans simmer in a fragrant vegetable broth. Just before serving, spoon on a basil-garlic pistou for a burst of aromatics. Stir at the table so everyone enjoys the color change.
13. Spiced Pumpkin Black Bean Soup

Canned pumpkin purée creates a silky backdrop for fiber-rich black beans. Warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and chipotle powder make each spoonful comforting. A quick simmer is all that’s needed since the beans are already cooked. Offer lime wedges for brightness.
14. Parsnip Pear Soup

Sweet ripe pear softens earthy parsnip, producing a subtly sweet winter soup. A touch of fresh ginger adds gentle heat. Purée until silky and stir in a splash of oat milk for a luxurious texture. Serve with a crack of black pepper.
15. Chicken Zoodle Pho-Inspired Soup

All the aromatic broth notes of classic pho meet low-carb zucchini “zoodles.” Toast star anise, cloves, and coriander seeds before simmering to build depth. Add shredded chicken breast and zoodles just before serving so the squash stays crisp. Garnish with Thai basil, cilantro, and lime.
16. Tuscan Farro & Kale Soup

Nutty farro lends chew and hearty whole-grain goodness. Kale wilted into a tomato-rich broth brings extra fiber and iron. A Parmesan rind simmered in the pot infuses a savory backbone. Remove the rind before ladling up.
17. Cabbage Roll Soup

This deconstructed take on stuffed cabbage skips the lengthy roll-and-bake step. Lean ground turkey, brown rice, and chopped cabbage simmer together in spiced tomato broth. The result is filling without feeling heavy. A dash of smoked paprika echoes oven-roasted flavor.
18. Salmon & Sweet Corn Chowder

Flaky baked salmon and sweet corn kernels team up in a lightened-up chowder. Instead of cream, puréed cauliflower thickens the broth naturally. Fresh dill complements the fish without overpowering it. Serve with lemon wedges to brighten each bite.
19. Greek Avgolemono with Brown Rice

Whisked egg and lemon juice create a silky texture that feels indulgent yet light. Brown rice replaces traditional white rice for added fiber. Keep the heat low when stirring in the egg mixture to avoid curdling. Finish with extra lemon zest for zing.
20. Thai-Inspired Shrimp & Spinach Soup

Light coconut milk, lemongrass, and lime leaves form an aromatic base. Gently poach shrimp until pink and just firm. Baby spinach wilts in seconds, bringing a pop of green and iron. Ladle over brown jasmine rice for more substance.
21. Pea & Mint Spring Soup

Frozen peas make this soup a year-round option while still tasting fresh. A handful of fresh mint keeps the flavor light and garden-bright. Blend with low-sodium vegetable stock and a splash of almond milk. Serve chilled or warm depending on the season.
22. Smoky Split Pea & Carrot Soup

Green split peas break down into a naturally thick base rich in plant protein. Diced carrots add sweetness and color contrast. A small amount of liquid smoke or smoked paprika brings depth without ham hocks. Enjoy with rye toast points.
23. Mexican Black Bean & Lime Soup

Puréed black beans create a velvety, fiber-packed soup. Cumin, oregano, and a pinch of chipotle chili give it gentle heat. Stir in fresh lime juice at the end to keep the flavor bright. Top with avocado cubes for healthy fats.
24. Golden Beet & Fennel Soup

Roasted golden beets lend earthy sweetness without the deep red hue. Fennel bulb and seeds provide a delicate anise note. Blend until completely smooth, then drizzle with fruity olive oil. The color makes an elegant starter for dinner parties.
25. Rustic Vegetable Barley Soup

Pearl barley adds satisfying chew and helps thicken the broth naturally. A mirepoix of carrots, celery, and onion forms the flavor base. Load in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. A splash of red wine vinegar brightens the finished dish.
26. Coconut Curry Pumpkin Lentil Soup

Red lentils dissolve into pumpkin purée for a protein-rich, silky texture. Mild yellow curry powder warms without overwhelming. Light coconut milk rounds out the flavors with subtle richness. Serve with warm whole-grain naan wedges.
27. Turmeric Cauliflower Rice Soup

Riced cauliflower stands in for grains, keeping carbohydrates low while adding cruciferous goodness. Turmeric colors the broth a cheerful yellow and offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Simmer gently to maintain a slight crunch in the cauliflower. Finish with chopped parsley and cracked pepper.
28. Celery Root & Green Apple Soup

Celery root, or celeriac, brings earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with tart green apple. Simmered together, they blend into a delicate, velvety purée. A squeeze of lemon juice lifts the aroma. Garnish with apple matchsticks for texture.
29. Hearty Mushroom Wild Rice Soup

Wild rice’s nutty flavor and chewy bite make every spoonful interesting. A mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms builds deep umami without relying on cream. Use a splash of cashew milk for a lighter richness. Thyme ties everything together.
30. Tomato Tortilla Soup

Roasted tomatoes and ancho chili powder give this soup gentle heat and smokiness. Blend half the soup to thicken, leaving some chunky vegetables intact. Top with crisp baked tortilla strips for crunch without extra oil. Add diced avocado for creaminess.
31. Spinach Artichoke Soup

The flavors of classic spinach-artichoke dip meet a lighter soup format. Puréed cauliflower stands in for heavy cheese, while a small amount of grated Parmesan adds punch. Marinated artichoke hearts deliver bright tang. Enjoy with whole-grain croutons.
32. Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Dhal Soup

Red lentils break down quickly, making this soup weeknight-friendly. Cubes of sweet potato add natural sweetness and beta carotene. A tempering of mustard seeds, cumin, and garam masala perfumes the dish. Serve with brown basmati rice or alone.
33. Mediterranean Chickpea & Lemon Soup

Also known as revithia, this Greek-inspired soup is as simple as chickpeas, olive oil, and bright lemon. Simmer slowly so the legumes turn buttery. Oregano and bay leaves add rustic charm. Olive oil drizzled tableside rounds out the flavor.
34. Korean-Inspired Kimchi Tofu Soup

Fermented kimchi brings probiotics and lively spice. Silken tofu lends protein and soft texture. A quick simmer with vegetable broth and gochujang paste creates a comforting, sinus-clearing bowl. Scatter sliced scallions on top before serving.
35. Herbed Turkey & Veggie Soup

Leftover roast turkey never tasted so balanced. Carrots, green beans, and potatoes simmer with thyme and rosemary in a light broth. A splash of white wine brightens the mix. Freeze portions for easy lunches.
36. Creamy Cannellini & Rosemary Soup

Purée half of the cannellini beans to thicken the soup without dairy. Fresh rosemary infuses an aromatic woodsy note. Olive oil sautéed garlic provides depth with minimal fat. Pair with a simple arugula salad.
37. Summer Squash & Corn Soup

Sweet summer corn and tender yellow squash shine in a delicate vegetable broth. Blend a small portion to thicken while leaving crunchy kernels intact. Fresh basil stirred in just before serving heightens the sunny flavor. Enjoy it chilled on hotter days.
38. Detox Green Pea & Kale Soup

A powerhouse of chlorophyll, this soup blends kale, peas, and parsley into a bright purée. A small boiled potato helps achieve silky texture without cream. Lemon zest and juice keep the taste fresh. Top with hemp seeds for omega-3s.
39. Red Curry Cod & Veggie Soup

Coconut milk tempered with fish stock forms a fragrant base. Add cooked chunks of mild cod toward the end so they stay flaky. Bell peppers and snap peas add color and crunch. Finish with lime juice and Thai basil.
40. Vegetable Minestrone with Pesto Drizzle

This lighter minestrone skips pasta and leans on extra vegetables and kidney beans. A quick homemade basil pesto, thinned with water, drizzles over each bowl for herbal brightness. Simmer a Parmesan rind for depth if desired. Serve with crusty rye bread.
41. Roasted Garlic & Cauliflower Soup

Roasting garlic until caramel-brown transforms its sharpness into sweetness. Blend it with steamed cauliflower for a velvet-smooth soup. A dash of white pepper adds gentle heat. Sprinkle chopped chives as a finishing touch.
42. Ginger Lemongrass Chicken Soup

Pounded lemongrass stalks and fresh ginger make the broth naturally aromatic. Simmer bone-in chicken thighs for richness, then shred the meat once tender. Add baby carrots and mushrooms for color. Cilantro sprigs liven up the presentation.
43. Spicy Tomato & White Bean Soup

Canned San Marzano tomatoes keep prep effortless while tasting bright. White beans supply protein and a creamy bite. A hint of crushed red pepper delivers warmth. Top with fresh basil ribbons.
44. Carrot Ginger Turmeric Soup

Fresh ginger and turmeric root transform sweet carrots into an immune-supportive bowl. Roast the carrots first to concentrate flavor. Blend with low-sodium broth until silky. Coconut yogurt on top provides cool contrast.
45. Root Vegetable & Lentil Stew Soup

Carrots, rutabaga, and turnips cozy up with green lentils in a thick tomato base. Slow simmering allows every flavor to meld. A splash of sherry vinegar keeps it from tasting too earthy. Crusty whole-grain bread makes it complete.
46. Tarragon Mushroom Soup

Fresh tarragon’s light anise note pairs wonderfully with sautéed mushrooms. Blend half the soup to maintain both silky and chunky textures. Light cashew cream replaces dairy. White wine deepens the savory flavors.
47. Quinoa Chili Soup

This is chili’s lighter sibling, using fluffy quinoa instead of ground meat. Kidney beans and corn add familiar Tex-Mex character. Smoked paprika supplies depth without excessive salt. Top with avocado and cilantro for healthy fats.
48. Light Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Puréed broccoli creates body, so only a small amount of sharp cheddar is needed for flavor. Oat milk replaces heavy cream, keeping things velvety yet lighter. A touch of Dijon mustard sharpens the taste. Serve in a bread-less bowl to cut carbs.
49. Soba Noodle & Edamame Soup

Buckwheat soba adds whole-grain goodness and nutty flavor. Edamame bumps up plant protein while staying tender. A simple dashi-inspired broth flavored with tamari keeps sodium balanced. Toasted sesame seeds complete the dish.
50. Lemon Dill Turkey Meatball Soup

Lean turkey meatballs poach gently in vegetable broth, staying tender and juicy. Brown rice and diced carrots make the soup satisfying without feeling heavy. Lemon and dill infuse a Scandinavian vibe. Make a double batch of meatballs to freeze for later.
51. Moroccan Chickpea & Spinach Soup

Ras el hanout brings warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon to a tomato base. Chickpeas provide hearty texture, while baby spinach wilts in moments. A squeeze of orange juice at the end adds subtle sweetness. Serve with whole-wheat couscous.
52. Pearl Couscous & Vegetable Soup

Pearl couscous cooks quickly yet offers pleasant chew. Colorful vegetables such as bell peppers and peas make every spoonful lively. A hint of turmeric turns the broth golden. Fresh mint sprinkled on top refreshes the palate.
53. Creamy Pumpkin Sage Soup

Canned pumpkin purée keeps this soup weeknight-easy. Cashew cream provides silkiness, letting you limit dairy. Fry a few sage leaves in olive oil for an elegant crunchy garnish. Grate a little fresh nutmeg over the top before serving.
54. Sweet Corn & Potato Chowder

Puréed Yukon gold potatoes thicken the chowder without cream. Sweet corn kernels pop with natural sugars. A dash of paprika deepens the color slightly. Chopped chives or parsley add freshness.
55. Green Detox Soup with Avocado Swirl

Broccoli, spinach, zucchini, and fresh herbs make this a chlorophyll powerhouse. Blend until silky, then top with a thin avocado purée swirl for healthy fats. A squeeze of lime keeps flavors crisp. Enjoy it warm or gently chilled.
56. Shrimp & Coconut Lime Soup

Light coconut milk and fresh lime juice create a tangy, tropical base. Add cooked shrimp in the final minutes to prevent toughness. Straw mushrooms provide earthy depth. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves.
57. Red Lentil & Tomato Soup

Red lentils cook in only 15 minutes, making this soup speedy. Crushed tomatoes give a bright acid note that balances the creamy legumes. Cumin and coriander add gentle warmth. Serve with whole-grain flatbread.
58. Kale & White Bean Sausage Soup

Lean chicken sausage seasons the broth without excess fat. Kale simmers until tender but still bright green. White beans make it filling and fiber-rich. A pinch of red pepper flakes supplies subtle kick.
59. Roasted Cauliflower & Parsnip Soup

Roasting both parsnips and cauliflower caramelizes their natural sugars. Blend with vegetable stock until ultra smooth. A few drops of truffle oil elevate the earthy flavors. Crack fresh black pepper before serving.
60. Sriracha Chicken & Brown Rice Soup

Sriracha enlivens a simple chicken and vegetable broth with gentle heat. Brown rice adds whole-grain substance and keeps you full longer. Carrots and celery provide classic comfort. Finish with sliced scallions for crunch.
61. Bean & Greens Soup with Parmesan Rind

Simmering a Parmesan rind in the broth lends deep savory notes without much added cheese. A mix of kidney, black, and navy beans ensures varied texture. Kale or chard wilt in at the end for vitamins K and C. Remove the rind before ladling up.
62. Spiced Carrot & Red Pepper Soup

Roasted red bell peppers and carrots blend into a sweet, smoky base. Toasted cumin seeds and coriander add warmth and fragrance. A dollop of yogurt balances the gentle spice. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
63. Mulligatawny-Inspired Apple Curry Soup

This lighter riff on mulligatawny uses cauliflower rice instead of white rice. Diced apple offers subtle sweetness that contrasts the mild curry spices. Lean chicken breast keeps calories in check. Finish with a squeeze of lime.
64. Sesame Ginger Udon Veggie Soup

A sesame-soy broth flavored with fresh ginger bathes tender udon noodles. Snow peas and carrots add color and crunch. Drizzle toasted sesame oil right before serving for aromatic depth. Top with sliced green onions.
65. Winter Vegetable Stew with Herbs de Provence

Chunky carrots, potatoes, and parsnips simmer slowly in a tomato-herb broth. Herbs de Provence lend hints of rosemary, thyme, and lavender, creating a comforting fragrance. A spoonful of tomato paste deepens color and provides umami. Serve with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
