Celebrate National Soup It Forward Day with Nourishing Soups for Seniors

National Soup It Forward Day, celebrated on March 3rd, is a wonderful opportunity to share the warmth and comfort of homemade soup with others, especially seniors who may benefit from nutritious, easy-to-eat meals. A bowl of soup can provide essential nutrients, hydration, and comfort, making it an ideal meal for older adults.

This year, let’s celebrate by cooking and sharing healthy, delicious soups that support, senior health. Below are three nutrient-rich soup recipes that are easy to digest and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

1. Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Why it’s great for seniors:

Lentils are rich in fiber and protein, which help support digestion and muscle health. This soup is also full of vitamins from fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, chopped

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon turmeric (anti-inflammatory benefits)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.

2. Add lentils, zucchini, broth, turmeric, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

2. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Why it’s great for seniors:

Butternut squash is packed with vitamin A, which supports vision and immunity. This creamy soup is easy to eat and gentle on digestion.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• 1 small apple, peeled and chopped (for natural sweetness)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• ½ cup low-fat milk or coconut milk

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion until soft. Add squash and apple.

2. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until squash is tender.

3. Blend the soup until smooth. Stir in milk, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.

3. Chicken and Barley Soup

Why it’s great for seniors:

Chicken provides high-quality protein, while barley is a great source of fiber for digestive health.

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded

• ½ cup pearl barley

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, chopped

• 1 small onion, diced

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion, carrot, and celery until tender.

2. Add barley, broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes.

3. Stir in shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes. Serve warm.

Share the Love with Soup

On National Soup It Forward Day, consider making a pot of soup to share with an elderly neighbor, a family member, or a community center. A warm bowl of soup can bring comfort, nutrition, and a sense of connection.

Happy Soup It Forward Day! Let’s spread warmth, one bowl at a time.