If you're looking for a hearty and healthy Soup to warm you up on a cold day, look no further than 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham. With a delicious blend of Beans, vegetables, and ham, this soup is both flavorful and satisfying. Plus, at only 140 Calories per serving, it's a great choice if you're watching your weight.

Not only is 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham low in Calories, it's also packed with nutritional benefits. For example, Beans are an excellent source of Fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. Additionally, they're high in plant-based Protein, which can help support healthy muscles and tissues. Ham is a good source of protein, as well, and can help you meet your daily protein needs. Plus, the vegetables in the soup (such as carrots and celery) add important Vitamins and Minerals to your diet.

In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham, as well as share the recipe and some tips and tricks for preparing and storing it. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Nutritional Information

One serving of 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham (approximately 1 1/2 cups) contains approximately 140 Calories, 3 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat, 22 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of Fiber, 3 grams of sugar, and 9 grams of Protein. In addition to the macronutrient values listed above, 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham is also a good source of several key Vitamins and Minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Health Benefits

There are many health benefits associated with eating 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham. Some of these include:

• Weight management: Due to its low calorie and high Fiber content, 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham can help you feel full and satisfied without overeating.
• Improved digestion: The fiber in the Beans can help promote healthy bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation.
• Heart health: Beans have been shown to improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Increased satiety: Protein is known to be a satiating macronutrient, meaning it can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time.

Ingredients

To make 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) of white Beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup diced ham
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Note: You can swap out the white beans for any other type of canned beans you have on hand (such as kidney or black beans) if you prefer.

Preparation Method

To make 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham, follow these simple steps:

1. In a large pot, add the onion, celery, and carrots. Saute until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ham and garlic powder and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Add the Beans and broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

12 oz Bean Soup with Ham is delicious on its own or served with some crusty bread for dipping. You could also try topping the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess, or sprinkling a little shredded cheese on top for some extra flavor.

Popular Variations

There are many ways to customize 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham to suit your tastes. Here are a few popular variations:

• Spicy: Add some diced jalapeno or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Vegetarian: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Italian-style: Add some diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil to give the soup an Italian twist.
• Smoky: Use smoked ham instead of regular ham for a smokier flavor.

Storage Tips

12 oz Bean Soup with Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage (up to 3 months). Make sure to label the container with the date you made the soup so you can keep track of how long it's been in the freezer.

Recipe Ideas

12 oz Bean Soup with Ham is a versatile dish that can be used in many Recipes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Top a baked potato with the soup for a filling and delicious meal.
• Use the soup as a base for a vegetable and bean stew.
• Blend the soup until smooth for a creamy and comforting puree.
• Use the soup as a filling for a hearty burrito or wrap.

Meal Planning

12 oz Bean Soup with Ham is a great meal to include in your weekly meal planning rotation. It's easy to make in large batches, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover ham you have from the holidays or other special occasions.

Cooking Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your 12 oz Bean Soup with Ham turns out perfectly every time:

• Make sure to drain and rinse your Beans before adding them to the soup to reduce the sodium content.
• Use a good quality broth for the best flavor. If you don't have homemade broth on hand, look for low-sodium varieties at your grocery store.
• Don't overcook the vegetables. You want them to be tender but still have a little bite to them.
• Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later on.