Counting Calories: Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

When it comes to maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle, counting calories is often a key part of the equation. By being mindful of the calories we consume, we can better manage our weight and overall health. However, this doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice taste and flavor. A great way to enjoy a satisfying and low-calorie meal is by making a delicious vegetable soup. To help you get started, we’re sharing a fantastic vegetable beef soup recipe that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Remove any excess fat and discard.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Add the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
6. Ladle the vegetable beef soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 5g

This hearty and flavorful vegetable beef soup is both delicious and calorie-conscious. Packed with lean protein and a variety of vegetables, it’s the perfect meal for anyone looking to count calories without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this soup as a main course for lunch or dinner, and feel satisfied knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. With recipes like this, healthy eating can be both enjoyable and attainable.