If you're looking for a creamy and delicious vegetable soup that won't break the calorie bank, look no further. One cup of cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk contains approximately 211 calories. This warm and comforting meal is perfect for cold winter nights or anytime you need a quick and easy lunch.

In addition to being low calorie, cream of vegetable soup is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Depending on the vegetables used, you can get a healthy dose of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Plus, the milk used in this recipe adds a boost of calcium and protein.

In this article, we'll go over the recipe for cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk, explore the health benefits and drawbacks of this dish, and offer tips and suggestions for serving and making the most of this versatile recipe.

Calorie Count

One cup of cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk contains approximately 211 calories.

Ingredients

The ingredients for cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk can vary depending on your taste preferences and the vegetables you have on hand. However, some common ingredients include:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chopped mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, mushrooms, green beans, and peas)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

To prepare cream of vegetable soup with milk, follow these steps:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
2. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
5. Remove the soup from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Puree the soup in batches in a blender or with an immersion blender until it's smooth and creamy.
7. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the whole milk.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Reheat the soup over low heat until it's warmed through.Serve hot with crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Health Benefits

Cream of vegetable soup is a nutritious and hearty meal that comes with several health benefits:

• Vitamins: Vegetables used in the soup provide essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
• Fiber: Vegetables also contain fiber that helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
• Calcium: The milk used in this recipe adds a boost of calcium that supports the growth and maintenance of healthy bones.

Possible Drawbacks

While cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk is generally a healthy meal option, some possible drawbacks include:

• calories: Depending on the recipe and ingredients used, cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk can be high in calories, especially if you're not careful with portion sizes.
• Sodium: Some canned or pre-made varieties of cream of vegetable soup can be high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and lead to other health problems.

Suitable for Vegetarians

Cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk is an excellent meal option for vegetarians, as it's free of meat and poultry. Plus, the vegetables and milk in the recipe provide a good deal of protein to keep you satiated and satisfied.

Versatility in Recipes

Cream of vegetable soup is also a versatile recipe that you can customize to your liking. For example, you can use different kinds of vegetables or spices to make it more flavorful. Plus, you can swap out the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond milk to make it vegan or dairy-free.

Store-bought vs Homemade

While you can buy pre-made cream of vegetable soup at the store, making it at home is a healthier and more satisfying option. When you make it yourself, you control the ingredients and can ensure that it's free of added preservatives or artificial flavors.

Substitutions

If you don't have some of the ingredients for cream of vegetable soup on hand, don't worry. You can easily substitute certain components and still end up with a delicious and nutritious meal. For example:

• You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth if you prefer a slightly different flavor.
• You can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to reduce the calorie count.
• You can add in some cooked chicken or ham for an extra dose of protein and flavor.
• You can use different seasonal vegetables depending on what's available and what sounds good to you.

Serving Suggestions

There's no shortage of ways to serve and enjoy cream of vegetable soup prepared with milk. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
• Pair with a simple salad or sandwich for a complete meal.