Soups

Teresa's Toscana Soup

It's been in the single digits here with windchills reaching below zero. Weather like that makes me think I should pack up and move south ... and then after I realize that's not really feasible, it makes me think about making a big pot of soup! I've been bookmarking yummy-sounding soups like crazy. I can't wait until I get the chance to make Pioneer Woman's Sherried Tomato Soup and Proud Italian Cook's Ribolitta. And I just know my husband's going to love Kalyn's Sausage, Tomato and Macaroni Soup with Basil. But it look like this winter is going to be cold enough -- and long enough -- that I will have a chance to try these new recipes and still make all of our old favorites too! 

Since the holiday season is upon us and everyone seems to be crazy busy, here are a few of my favorite soup recipes. Soup is the perfect food this season. It's warm and filling. It can be made ahead and re-heated in only a few minutes and in whatever quantity you need. And best of all, soup makes an inexpensive meal so you can save money for more holiday shopping and that you can easily stretch into a company-worthy meal. Add some wonderful artisan bread and a salad and dinner is served!

Teresa's Toscana is one of my favorites. Originally intended to be similar to the Zuppa Toscana at Olive Garden, it's evolved to include more potato and leafy, green kale as well as spicy Italian Sausage. Now it's a meal all by itself. In fact I have a big pot of it simmering away on the stove as  I type!

Bean, Kale and Chorizo Soup

came about as a way to clean out the produce left in the fridge. It ended up being a delicious family favorite I've made again and again. Spanish Chorizo (the kind you can slice, not the Mexican type that is more like ground beef), chunky potatoes, kale and white beans simmered in a spicy chicken broth. Top with some Parm and a side of crusty, warm bread and you've got a perfect winter meal.

Buffalo Chicken Chili proves that food that's good for you can taste good too! Filled with lean chicken breast, black beans and whatever vegetables you have on hand this soup can pack a wallop depending on which wing sauce you use. If you aren't a fan of really spicy food, taste as you go! Top with blue cheese or ranch dressing if you prefer.

Simple White Bean Soup is perfect for lunch. Plenty of protein and fiber to keep you going through a long afternoon. Plus it's a breeze to throw together using pantry staples. And it looks good enough to serve for company or a bunch of neighborhood kids warming up at your house after an afternoon of sledding. Who knew white beans and canned tomatoes could be so tasty? Other than Jill over at Simple Daily Recipes, I mean.

Tomato and Chickpea Soup

is another great recipe from Jill over at Simple Daily Recipes. This one also uses pantry staples: chickpeas, rice, canned tomatoes. It's as delicious and filling as it is good for you! Head on over and check out more of Jill's delicious soups and stews.

Teresa's Tortilla Soup

was originally inspired by a Rachael Ray recipe. With four active kids, you know I love the concept of a 30 minute meal. I also love the idea of chipotle peppers. It's funny to think that I didn't know what they were a few short years ago. Now I keep a supply in the pantry and in the freezer and use them all the time. They add a wonderful smoky heat to this soup.Crispy bacon and fire-roasted tomatoes make this soup taste like it's been simmering all day.

Sponge's Mom's Chili is probably the oldest recipe that I still make on a regular basis. Back before the kids were born, I preferred take out to cleaning up so I rarely cooked. I found this recipe back in the early days of the internet when even AOL was new. It was originally called Sponge's Mom's Chili and has been the best chili recipe I've ever tried. My husband even said it was better than his Grandma's chili. Shh! Don't tell anyone!