A Quick and Easy Recipe for Beginners
This flavorful and hearty soup is packed with wholesome ingredients that support your detox journey. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a meal on its own or as part of a healthy eating plan. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious homemade meal.
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup frozen corn
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dice the onion, garlic, peppers, and zucchini.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the red and green bell peppers, zucchini, and frozen corn. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4: Add the Beans and Tomatoes
Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly coat the ingredients with the spices.
Step 6: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Final Touches
Squeeze in the fresh lime juice and stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips for Success
Customizable Ingredients: Swap out the vegetables or beans based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, add sweet potatoes for extra heartiness or spinach for more greens.
Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or tofu for an extra protein kick.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Why This Recipe Works
Nutrient-Packed: This soup is filled with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fresh vegetables and beans, making it a great choice for detoxing and weight management.
Balanced Flavors: The southwest-inspired spices and lime juice add a burst of flavor without the need for heavy or processed ingredients.
Filling and Satisfying: Despite being light, the beans and vegetables provide a satisfying texture and keep you full for hours.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup as is for a low-calorie option.
Pair with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side of avocado slices for added healthy fats.
Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or a handful of crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Detox Southwest Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a healthy lifestyle choice. Regularly incorporating it into your routine can help you shed pounds while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. Simple, delicious, and beginner-friendly, this recipe proves that eating clean doesn’t have to be boring! Enjoy the warmth, comfort, and vibrant flavors in every bowl.