Superlative Soups

Today we had to officially turn off our swamp cooler to make way for the heater, as it dropped to 43 degrees (that’s Fahrenheit, and that’s cold for our city in the desert). All day long, I was dreaming of soup; there’s no dish quite as warm and comforting as a hearty, tasty soup. So for all of you who, like me, are shivering in the cold, here’s some soup recipes to warm you up:

Marvelous Minestrone

I am a big fan of this classic, Italian soup. I love to mix it up year round with various in season veggies, but I always maintain the addition of a leafy green, like spinach or kale, and some pasta.

Hearty Vegetarian Tortilla Soup

This soup is a staple here in the Southwest, although most people include shredded chicken and chicken broth. This vegetarian friendly version is just as delicious, if not more healthy by the addition of protein packed beans.

Tasty Tortellini Soup

I do not know an easier, more delicious soup than this tortellini soup. Packed with an assortment of vegetables, this filling dish is a complete meal all on its own.

Yummy Hatch Green Chile Stew

Another Southwest favorite, this dish is made complete with local Hatch chile peppers. But if you don’t have access to those, any roasted and chopped green chile pepper will do. This soup is sure to warm you up, and I love to make it when I’m under the weather, as nothing clears out the sinuses quite like spicy food.

Chunky Tomato Basil Bisque

This tomato soup is smooth yet chunky, full of robust tomato flavors with the perfect amount of basil. The ultimate comfort on a cold day, this old-fashioned dish taste just like home.