Pumpkin soup: A creamy, healthy swap for tomato soup
What's the story
Pumpkin soup is a healthy and delicious alternative to creamy tomato soup.
Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, a bowl of spiced pumpkin soup is not just soul-warming but also a powerhouse of health benefits.
Read on to discover why spiced pumpkin soup is your ticket to a tasty and healthy upgrade from creamy tomato soup.
Nutrition
Nutritional benefits galore
Pumpkin is a low-calorie vegetable that's full of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber - all essential for health.
A single cup of cooked pumpkin provides over 200% of the recommended daily intake for vitamin A, which supports healthy eyes and a strong immune system.
On the other hand, creamy tomato soup typically incorporates cream or milk to achieve its texture, introducing fats and calories with lower nutritional benefit.
Heart health
A heart-healthy choice
Spiced pumpkin soup is a great option for individuals seeking to promote heart health.
The fiber present in pumpkin helps decrease bad cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.
And, potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
Most creamy tomato soups are loaded with sodium and saturated fats, which can harm the heart if consumed excessively.
Flavor
Versatility in flavor
The beauty of spiced pumpkin soup is that you can really play around with the flavors.
You can adjust the spices (think warm, cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves) to your liking, making it a perfect comfort meal for those cold winter nights.
Tomato soup, on the other hand, is pretty one-dimensional. If the tomatoes aren't good, the whole thing falls flat.
Digestion
Easy on digestion
Pumpkin is rich in fiber that not only supports digestion but also keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
So, spiced pumpkin soup is perfect if you're trying to lose weight or just want to eat healthily without feeling deprived.
Creamy tomato soups can be a bit harsh on the tummy (think acidity plus all that dairy), leaving you feeling a bit blah instead of comfy-cozy.
Budget
Budget-friendly meal option
Making spiced pumpkin soup at home is super affordable, especially in the fall when pumpkins are plentiful.
A big pumpkin for like $5 will give you a ton of soup servings, while buying ingredients for homemade creamy tomato soup can get pricier if you want fresh tomatoes out of season or good quality canned ones.