If you're searching for a delicious soup to enjoy during colder weather and you love the taste of tomato and basil, then tomato basil bisque may be the perfect choice for you. One cup of this flavorful soup contains around 200 calories, making it a great addition to your meal plan if you're watching your weight.
Tomato basil bisque is a creamy soup made from tomatoes, cream, and herbs such as basil. It's a good source of carbohydrates and protein, making it a satisfying meal choice. In addition, it contains several essential vitamins and minerals that can help keep you healthy and energetic.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of tomato basil bisque, its health benefits, as well as some tips for making it healthier and fitting it into your diet.
Calories in a cup of Tomato Basil Bisque
One cup (240 ml) of tomato basil bisque contains around 200 calories. If you're following a 2000-calorie diet, this accounts for about 10% of your daily calorie requirement. It's worth noting that the calorie content can vary depending on how the soup is prepared. For example, if made with heavy cream instead of half and half, the calorie count will be higher.
Macronutrient breakdown of Tomato Basil Bisque
A typical serving of tomato basil bisque (1 cup/240 ml) contains approximately: • Carbohydrates - 20 grams • Protein - 4 grams, Fat - 14 grams
Vitamins and minerals in Tomato Basil Bisque
Tomato basil bisque is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function optimally, including: • Vitamin A – boosts your immune system and strengthens your vision • Vitamin C – helps to protect your cells from oxidative stress
Tomato Basil Bisque as a source of fiber
Tomato basil bisque is not a good source of fiber, as it contains only 2 grams of fiber per cup. To increase the fiber content, you can add some vegetables such as carrots or celery to the soup.
Health benefits of consuming Tomato Basil Bisque regularly
Tomato basil bisque provides several health benefits when consumed regularly. Some of these include: • Improved immune function - due to the presence of vitamin A • Reduced risk of chronic disease - due to the presence of antioxidants such as vitamin C
How Tomato Basil Bisque fits into a balanced diet
Tomato basil bisque can be incorporated into a healthy, balanced diet in a number of ways. Some tips include: • Pairing it with a salad or sandwich, to increase the nutrient content of your meal • Using it as a snack or light meal option, instead of reaching for unhealthy options like chips or candy
Ways to make Tomato Basil Bisque healthier
If you'd like to make your tomato basil bisque even healthier, try these tips: • Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, to reduce the sodium content of the soup • Make your own soup at home, using fresh ingredients and herbs for maximum flavor and nutrition
Potential downsides of Tomato Basil Bisque consumption
While tomato basil bisque can be a healthy meal option, there are some potential downsides to consider: • High in sodium – many store-bought soups contain high amounts of sodium, which can be detrimental to your heart health • May contain additives and preservatives – to prolong shelf life and enhance flavor, many commercial soups contain additives and preservatives that may be harmful to your health
Comparison to other soups in terms of nutritional value
When compared to other soups, tomato basil bisque is a relatively healthy choice in terms of nutrition. For example, a serving of canned tomato soup contains around 180 calories, 31 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of protein.
Recommended serving sizes for Tomato Basil Bisque
One cup of tomato basil bisque (240 ml) is a standard serving size. Depending on your calorie needs and nutritional goals, you can adjust your portion size accordingly. Remember to pay attention to the sodium content, and opt for low-sodium varieties if possible.
One cup of tomato basil bisque provides several essential vitamins and minerals that can help keep you healthy and energetic.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Basil Bisque
1. What is Tomato Basil Bisque?
Tomato Basil Bisque is a creamy soup made from pureed tomatoes, cream, and a blend of herbs and spices, including basil. It is often served as a starter or side dish, and can be garnished with croutons, sour cream, or freshly chopped herbs.
2. How many calories are in a cup of Tomato Basil Bisque?
A cup (240 ml) of Tomato Basil Bisque typically contains around 200 calories. However, the exact calorie count may vary depending on the specific recipe or brand.
3. Is Tomato Basil Bisque healthy?
Tomato Basil Bisque can be a healthy choice if it's made with fresh, wholesome ingredients and served in moderation. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while herbs like basil add flavor and nutrients without extra calories. However, many store-bought varieties of Tomato Basil Bisque may contain added sugars, sodium, and preservatives, so it's important to read labels carefully.
4. What are some variations of Tomato Basil Bisque?
There are many different ways to customize Tomato Basil Bisque to suit your taste preferences. For example, you could add other vegetables like roasted red peppers or carrots, or swap out the cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or oregano, to give your bisque a unique twist.
5. How can I make Tomato Basil Bisque at home?
There are countless Tomato Basil Bisque recipes available online or in cookbooks, but a basic recipe might involve sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, adding chopped tomatoes and basil, and simmering until the flavors meld together. Then, the mixture is blended until smooth, and cream or milk is added for richness. From there, you can adjust the seasoning to taste and garnish with your choice of toppings.