Healthful Comfort Foods

Healthful Comfort Foods

Few things go together quite like cold weather and comfort foods, but dishes craved on blustery days aren’t always healthful.

With the right approach, though, you can put a better-for-you twist on favorite dishes like this Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup with Cheddar Cracker Melts.

With 20 grams of whole grains per serving, these crunchy, robust baked crackers are cholesterol-free. For more seasonal recipes, coupons and tips, visit crunchmaster.com.

Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup with Cheddar Cracker Melts Servings: 6

Soup

2 TB olive oil 1 onion, chopped 1 carrot, chopped 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tsp. salt, divided 1/2 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp. paprika

1 pinch chili flakes

4 cups organic no-salt-added vegetable broth

1 can (28 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes

1 cup chopped roasted red peppers

2 bay leaves

1/3 cup 35 percent heavy cream

2 TB finely chopped fresh chives

1 tsp. cider vinegar

Cheddar Cracker Melts

24 Crunchmaster Tuscan Peasant Fire Roasted Tomato Basil Crackers

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Cook onion, carrot, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, paprika and chili flakes about 5 minutes, or until vegetables are slightly softened.

Stir in broth, tomatoes, roasted red peppers and bay leaves; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Discard bay leaves. Let cool slightly. Transfer to blender; puree in batches until smooth. Stir in cream, remaining salt, 1 TB chives and vinegar.

To make Cheddar Cracker Melts, heat broiler to high and position rack in center of oven. Arrange crackers on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with cheese and broil 1-2 minutes.

Tip: Use mild, medium or aged cheddar cheese. Smoked mozzarella can be substituted, if desired. ❚

(Source: Family Features)