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Nothing beats the comfort of a steaming bowl of tomato noodle soup on a chilly day. This recipe offers the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for a quick, satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the simple steps of crafting this homemade classic.

Ingredients

Creating a quick and easy tomato noodle soup requires just a handful of readily available ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (use butter if you are not on a weight-loss diet).
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces of your favorite noodles (we recommend using small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Chopping Vegetables: Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. This aromatic base will infuse the soup with rich flavors.

Measuring Spices: Gather your dried basil and oregano. Precisely measuring your spices ensures a perfect balance of taste.

Choosing the Right Noodles: Select your preferred noodles. Opting for smaller noodles allows for quicker cooking and easier eating.

Cooking

Sauté Aromatics: 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Adding Tomatoes: 

Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.

Incorporating Broth: 

Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Simmering the Soup:

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to intensify while you prepare the noodles.

Serving

Presentation: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Additional Toppings: If you like, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top or serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tomato Noodle Soup Helps In Weight Loss

Tomato noodle soup can be a helpful addition to a weight loss plan for several reasons:

Low in calories:

Tomato noodle soup is often relatively low in calories compared to other meals. Using a tomato base and incorporating vegetables and lean proteins like chicken or tofu can create a filling meal without excessive calorie intake.

High in Fiber: 

Vegetables and whole-grain noodles in the soup can provide a good amount of dietary fiber. Fiber helps to increase feelings of fullness and can prevent overeating by promoting satiety.

Hydration: 

Soup contains a significant amount of water, which can contribute to your overall hydration. Sometimes, thirst is mistaken for hunger, so staying hydrated can help reduce unnecessary snacking.

Nutrient Density: 

Tomato noodle soup often includes a variety of vegetables, such as tomatoes, carrots, and celery. These vegetables are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, providing your body with necessary nutrients while controlling calorie intake.

Controlled Portions: 

When you make soup at home, you have control over the ingredients and portion sizes. Smaller, well-controlled portions can help prevent overeating and keep calorie intake in check.

Reduced Cravings: 

Tomato-based soups can have a satisfying and savory taste due to their umami flavor. This can help reduce cravings for less healthy, calorie-dense foods.

Homemade Options: 

Preparing homemade tomato noodle soup allows you to avoid added preservatives, excessive sodium, and unhealthy fats that are often found in canned or store-bought versions.

However, it’s essential to remember that while tomato noodle soup can be a beneficial component of a weight loss plan, it’s not a magic solution. Effective weight loss involves a combination of factors, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, portion control, and overall lifestyle changes. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have specific weight loss goals or dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

This quick and easy tomato noodle soup recipe is a lifesaver on busy days. With minimal effort and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade soup that’s sure to warm your soul. Don’t hesitate to try it out and savor the comforting taste of this classic dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomato soup instead of crushed tomatoes?

• While you can substitute canned tomato soup, using crushed tomatoes provides a more robust and natural tomato flavor. If using tomato soup, adjust the seasoning accordingly.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

• Absolutely! This soup reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

3. Can I add protein like chicken or meatballs to this soup?

• Certainly! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding cooked chicken, meatballs, or even tofu for extra protein. Simply add your protein of choice during the simmering stage to heat it through.