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Notes on Nutrition: Simple souped up additions for busy days, nights
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As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to change colors, we know fall is just around the corner. With the cooler weather comes a craving for warm, comforting foods, and what better way to enjoy the season's flavors than a hearty bowl of soup?
Soup is a fantastic choice for your lunch or dinner, offering a cozy, nutrient-dense meal packed with warmth and hearty flavor. Soups are often loaded with vegetables containing vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. They also can be a great way to get more protein into your day, either with animal-based proteins like chicken or beef or vegetarian proteins like beans or lentils.
Let’s go over some nutrient-dense options when choosing canned soup the next time you shop at Hy-Vee.
Recipe
Grilled Cheese Croutons and Soup
Ingredients:
2 slice(s) sharp cheddar cheese
2 slice(s) Baking Stone sourdough bread
2 tablespoon butter divided
2 cups purchased Progresso Protein soups
Directions:
Sandwich cheese slices between bread slices. In a saute pan, heat 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil until melted over medium heat. Add the sandwich and gently press down, continuing to cook until golden. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter or olive oil, flip the sandwich over and cook until golden. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into bite-size croutons.
Heat the Progresso Protein soup of your choice in a medium saucepan until heated through. Serve soup with prepared croutons.
Source: Recipe modified from Hy-Vee.com
Get your protein and get going
Don't let hunger slow you down. Progresso Protein soups are designed to be part of a quick and easy meal solution that doesn’t compromise nutrition. Whether at home or on the go, these soups provide a substantial source of protein to help keep you energized throughout the day. For an easy meal with a boost of nutrition, Plus it Up! Each can of Progresso Protein soup is delicious on its own, but you can maximize the nutritional benefits by pairing it with wholesome sides to create a more balanced meal:
- Low-fat dairy: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of low-fat cheese, or a splash of milk can add a creamy texture and extra protein. You also can serve low-fat dairy and soup with a glass of low-fat milk.
- Whole-grain crackers: Pair your soup with whole-grain crackers or a slice of whole-grain toast for added crunch and fiber.
- Extra veggies: An easy side of baby carrots, celery sticks, or cucumber slices can help add a refreshing, veggie-filled crunch. A fresh side salad with leafy greens, veggies, and a vinaigrette also can help add vitamins, minerals and fiber.
- Side of fruit: A piece of fruit like an apple, banana or orange provides a bright and sweet complement to your savory soup with an added boost of nutrition.
A variety of flavors to savor
Progresso Protein soups come in a wide range of delicious flavors. Made with high-quality ingredients, each soup provides a rich and hearty addition to any meal. Some of our Hy-Vee dietitian favorites include:
- Hearty Grain Vegetable Soup: The hearty and wholesome meat-free recipe features chickpeas, carrots and barley in a savory tomato broth with 18 grams of protein per can.
- Plus it Up! by adding a side of whole grain crackers and baby carrots.
- Mediterranean-Style Lentil: This cozy and delicious vegetarian protein soup includes half a cup of vegetables and 24 grams of protein per can.
- Plus it Up! by topping with Greek yogurt or crushed bean-based chips.
- Southwest-Style Black Bean: Savor the flavor of black beans, corn, barley and roasted red bell pepper in a tomato-based broth with 20 grams of protein per can.
- Plus it Up! by stirring in a 100 percent canned pumpkin puree spoonful.
- Chickpea & Noodle: Enjoy 17 grams of plant-based protein per can and curly noodles in a rich base with spices.
- Plus it Up! and pair with cheesy toast and an apple or side salad.
So, the next time you need a quick and convenient meal, reach for Progresso™ Protein soups and Plus it Up! with your favorite nutrient-dense sides. And while you’re at it, consider upgrading your oyster crackers with the following family-friendly spin on croutons
Julie Gallagher is a registered dietitian at Hy-Vee.
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