Are you a fitness enthusiast looking for delicious and nutritious meals to fuel your active lifestyle? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering high protein soup recipes that are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, there’s something on this list for everyone.
From classic chicken noodle soups to more adventurous options like spicy chickpea and kale, these high protein soups are packed with nutrients and will keep you satisfied until your next workout. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
In our next section, we’ll be diving into the first 10 recipes on our list. From quinoa-based soups to hearty beef and barley options, these soups are sure to become a staple in your diet.
Chicken and Quinoa Protein Soup
This hearty soup is packed with protein-rich chicken, quinoa, and vegetables to keep you full and focused throughout the day. With only 20 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or basil) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, quinoa, broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lentil and Spinach High Protein Soup
This hearty soup is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein-rich lentils, nutritious spinach, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that will keep you going all day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water or broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Turkey and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of savory turkey, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic vegetables. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on the classic chicken noodle soup, with the added tanginess of Greek yogurt and a hint of Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1/2 cup egg noodles
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, and celery in olive oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
5. Stir in Greek yogurt and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Quinoa Soup
This vibrant and nutritious soup combines the earthy flavors of black beans and quinoa with a hint of spice, making it perfect for a comforting meal or packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add soaked black beans, vegetable broth, quinoa, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beans and quinoa are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chickpea and Kale Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the earthy flavor of kale, all infused with a kick of spice. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, kale, and broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until kale is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Barley Protein Soup
This hearty soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day, packed with protein-rich beef and whole grain barley. With its rich flavor and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup whole grain barley
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef broth and barley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tofu and Miso Soup with Edamame
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Tofu and Miso Soup, infused with the sweetness of edamame. This Japanese-inspired recipe is a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 cup edamame (frozen or fresh)
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, miso paste, and whisk until smooth.
2. Add tofu, edamame, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until edamame is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Salmon and Sweet Potato Chowder
This creamy and comforting chowder is perfect for a chilly evening. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the salmon, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes start to soften.
5. Add the salmon fillet and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
High Protein Vegetarian Chili Soup
This hearty chili soup is packed with plant-based protein from black beans, chickpeas, and quinoa, making it a nutritious and filling meal option for vegetarians. This recipe is also low in fat and calories, perfect for those looking to balance their diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked quinoa, black beans, and chickpeas.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Egg Drop Soup with Tofu and Spinach
This recipe combines the classic Chinese soup, Egg Drop Soup, with the added protein and nutrition of tofu and spinach. The result is a creamy and savory broth that’s perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a simmer.
2. Add the tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
4. Add the spinach leaves and stir until wilted.
5. Mix the cornstarch with a little water until smooth, then add it to the soup and stir constantly over low heat for 2 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Curried Lentil and Coconut Soup
This flavorful soup is a perfect blend of Indian spices, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious lentils. Serve with some crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
2. Add lentils, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the tender chicken with the richness of black beans. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in the cumin, then add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Gazpacho
This creamy and flavorful gazpacho gets a boost of protein and healthy fats from the addition of succulent shrimp and ripe avocado. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the mixed vegetables until smooth.
2. Add the shrimp, avocado, garlic, olive oil, and lime juice. Blend until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with a sprinkle of crusty bread crumbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Split Pea and Ham Protein Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy split peas, savory ham, and aromatic spices. With its rich flavor and high protein content, it’s an ideal meal for a chilly day or a post-workout refuel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the peas again, then combine with 2 cups of fresh water in a large pot.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced ham to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chickpea and Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of Mediterranean ingredients, packed with protein-rich chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil. A comforting and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes or 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in chopped basil leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
High Protein Pumpkin and Chickpea Soup
This creamy and comforting soup combines the warmth of pumpkin with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, making it a nutritious and filling meal option. With over 20 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is perfect for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking to boost their daily protein intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cubed pumpkin, chickpeas, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
5. Stir in the Greek yogurt and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Soup with Kale
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines tender turkey, nutritious lentils, and nutrient-rich kale. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté turkey, carrots, celery, and garlic in a little oil until the turkey is browned.
2. Add lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Soup with Greek Yogurt
This recipe combines the flavors of buffalo wings with a comforting bowl of chicken soup, topped with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt. Perfect for a chilly day or as a unique twist on traditional chicken noodle soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or buffalo wing sauce of your choice)
– 8 oz Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in the Frank’s RedHot sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt and garnished with cilantro or scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
High Protein Minestrone with Quinoa
This recipe combines the protein-rich benefits of quinoa with the fiber and vitamins of a classic minestrone soup, making it an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fuel your fitness routine with these delicious and high-protein soups! This collection of recipes features a variety of flavors and ingredients, from chicken and quinoa to lentils and spinach. Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat-lover, there’s something for everyone. With options like Greek yogurt chicken noodle soup, black bean and quinoa soup, and spicy chickpea and kale soup, you’ll never get bored with your protein-packed meals. Perfect for post-workout recovery or a quick lunch, these soups are sure to satisfy your cravings and support your fitness goals.