If a busy day has left you short on time or you're simply craving a comforting bowl of goodness, tinned soup is a valuable addition to any kitchen cupboard.
Not only is it budget-friendly, it also boasts a long shelf-life and it’s ready to enjoy in minutes. Make your next bowl even better by stirring in these simple, tasty add-ins. Heat, eat, repeat!
1. Leafy greens
Whether you’re popping open a tin of chicken noodle or tomato, soup can be a great way to use up chopped greens such as salad leaves, kale and spinach. Incorporate whatever amount you prefer (fresh or frozen), then heat until warmed and wilted. A good one to remember next time you’re sick of salad!
2. Cooked veggies
Sure, soup is usually defined by its liquid status, but that doesn’t mean you can’t amp up the solids. Frozen veggies such as peas and corn make nutritious additions and simply need to be heated through. Tinned soup also makes a great catch-all for leftover cooked veggies such as diced butternut squash, broccoli florets and diced potato. Throw ’em in!
3. Lean protein
Level up a simple veggie puree or broth-based soup by adding a source of protein such as tinned beans or shredded chicken. It’ll transform a simple bowl of soup into a satisfying meal, and help keep you fuller for longer.
4. Fresh herbs
There's no reason to let that giant pack of parsley wilt in the fridge. Chop up a handful and scatter it on almost any soup for a fresh flavour hit and a pretty pop of green. Other versatile herbs include thyme, dill and chives. All good options, fresh or dried!
5. Something crispy
After ladling soup into a bowl, add textural interest by sprinkling a crunchy element on top. Homemade croutons or a few crumbled tortilla chips can add excitement to your bowl.
6. Something savoury
Boost the depth of flavour in your favourite tinned soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese, a spoonful of capers or chopped olives for a briny flavour, or some chopped sun-dried tomato for sweet-tart complexity. Every bite will taste a little more special.
7. A tart finishing touch
Palate-tickling acid helps other flavours pop. If you’re serving a veggie variety of soup, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving. If you’re heating up a Mexican or Asian-style soup, add a squeeze of sriracha or another hot sauce. Balsamic vinegar complements everything from lentil soup to tomato bisque. A simple splash is all it takes!