A Healthier Version of Creamy Cheddar Soup — Just 250 Calories!
Cheddar soups are known for being creamy and rich but also come with a lot of calories and saturated fat. For a lighter twist on this favorite, try our simple-to-make cheddar-cauliflower soup. It's easy to throw together on a weeknight, and even better as healthy leftovers for lunch the next day.
Cheddar-Cauliflower Soup
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large leeks, white and light green parts thinly sliced and rinsed
- 4 cups chopped cauliflower florets (from 1 medium head)
- 2 1/2 cups low-fat milk, divided
- 2 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white or black pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the leeks and stir until very soft, about five minutes.
Add cauliflower, two cups milk, water, bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is soft, about eight minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 1/2 cup milk and flour in a small bowl.
When the cauliflower is soft, remove the bay leaf and stir in the milk mixture. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until the soup has thickened slightly, about two minutes more.
Remove from the heat. Stir in cheese and lemon juice.