I'm not sure about you, but when the weather starts to get a little warmer my cookbooks come off the bookshelf and get a lot more lovin'. Case in point, this week I've been on a cooking/baking spree and have especially been enjoying The Eat-Clean Diet Cookbook by Tosca Reno. I've found some amazing and tasty recipes that I wanted to share!
It's no secret to those around me that I've jumped on the clean eating bandwagon. It all started when I purchased the Insanity fitness program a little over year ago. This program marked the beginning of my journey to a healthier lifestyle and since then I haven't looked back.
This soup is not only healthy and delicious but so easy to make. I'm sure most of the ingredients in this recipe are staples in most kitchens; which is another reason why this recipe is a definite keeper for me.
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 ribs celery, trimmed and coarsely chopped ( I added three cause I love my veggies)
1 fat carrot, peeled and chopped ( I added 2)
1 small purple onion, peeled and chopped
1 red pepper, seeded and de-veined, chopped
1 green pepper, seeded and de-veined, chopped
2 cloves garlic passed through a garlic press (or minced garlic; which is what I used)
1 tsp dried cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp chili powder
4 cups low-sodium chicken/vegetable stock (I opted for vegetable)
2 x 15 oz cans black beans (I rinsed and drained them)
1 x 15 oz canned diced tomatoes
1 cup fresh corn kernels (I didn't have fresh so used frozen instead)
Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper
Preparation:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add celery, carrot, onion, and bell peppers. Saute until onion becomes translucent, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and spices. Cook another 2 minutes.
2. Add stock or cooking liquid of your choice, beans and tomatoes. Bring mixture to a boil and then reduce heat. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes. Using a hand-held blender, puree soup to desired consistency. (Note: I don't own a hand-held blender so I improvised and used a regular blender instead). Add corn and let simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Here is the end result - pure deliciousness. :)
Let me know if you make this recipe and what your thoughts are. I would really appreciate your feedback! I'll be posting a few more recipes that have been a hit in my home during the last couple of weeks - a few of them are scrumptious desserts :)
Until next time,
Happy Girl :)