Try This Low-Sodium Tomato Basil Soup Recipe for a Healthy Heart (2024)

Most canned soups—even the reduced-sodium versions—are very high in sodium. If you are following a low-sodium eating plan or simply looking to reduce your overall sodium intake, making your own soup is a great solution. Homemade soup is also a great way to use up fresh vegetables and add a serving of blood pressure-friendly foods to your meal.

Tomatoes are naturally high in the antioxidant lycopene, which is a carotenoid that may help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Using fresh summer tomatoes and basil makes this healthy tomato basil soup extra flavorful without all the salt.

Roasted red peppers add a nice subtle sweetness, and milk adds a little dose of protein. Add a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper and serve with a fresh green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

Ingredients

• 6 large tomatoes
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 4 cloves garlic
• 3/4 cup skim milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1. Heat oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cut the bell pepper in half and remove the seeds and stem.

3. Place tomatoes, red pepper, and garlic on the baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.

4. Remove garlic and flip the pepper and tomatoes. Return to oven for another 20 minutes.

5. Remove from the oven and allow vegetables to cool. Once cooled, peel the skins from the pepper and tomatoes.

6. Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.Heat soup to the desired temperature in a saucepan over low heat and serve immediately.

Variations and Substitutions

You can use 1/2 tablespoon dried basil in place of fresh basil if you don’t have fresh. Make your soup dairy-free by using your favorite plant milk like reduced-fat coconut milk or cashew milk—just be sure to use an unflavored and unsweetened option.​

Cooking and Serving Tips

• Serve with a salad, half a sandwich, or a piece of crusty bread for a balanced lunch.
• Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and freshly torn basil leaves for an additional flavor boost.
• Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat.
• Enjoy it cold as a refreshing meal on a hot day.

By Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD
Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD, is an intuitive eating registered dietitian with a master's in clinical nutrition.