Choose Lean Protein: Use chicken chop meat or ground turkey to keep the soup light yet flavorful. These proteins reduce the fat content while providing a great texture.

Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles: For extra fiber and nutrients, try whole wheat lasagna noodles or a gluten-free alternative. Add them directly to the soup near the end for al dente texture.

Boost Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Add basil, oregano, and thyme to enhance the Italian flavors. Fresh herbs make a huge difference and can be added toward the end to keep their vibrant taste.

Opt for Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control the salt levels, allowing the spices and tomatoes to stand out without becoming too salty.

Sauté the Aromatics: Begin with onions, garlic, and carrots sautéed in a bit of olive oil to build a robust flavor base for the soup. This step adds depth and richness.

Choose Fresh or No-Sugar-Added Tomatoes: Use either fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes with no added sugar. This keeps the soup naturally sweet and reduces unwanted sugars.

Add Baby Spinach or Kale: For a nutritional boost, stir in baby spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. These greens add vitamins and minerals without overpowering the flavor.

Garnish with Ricotta and Parmesan: Serve each bowl with a spoonful of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It adds a creamy, cheesy richness with less overall cheese and fewer calories.

Cook Noodles Separately for Storage: If you’re planning to store leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when reheating. This prevents the noodles from getting soggy in the soup.

Store Leftovers Properly: Let the soup cool before transferring it to airtight containers, storing it in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it (without noodles) for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding fresh-cooked noodles for best texture.