Christmas Soup for Sharing

A simple chicken or white bean vegetable soup that's less about cooking skills and more about creating a reason to sit, talk and be together.

  • 4 servings
  • Prep 10 min
  • Cook 30 min
  • Ready in 40 min
  • About 13 g protein
A bowl of hearty vegetable soup with carrots, celery and potatoes, topped with fresh parsley

This is less about cooking skills and more about creating a reason to sit, talk, and be together.

How to Use This Recipe for Connection

  • Make a pot and invite someone to share a bowl
  • Deliver a container to a neighbor who might be alone
  • Ask a family member to help you chop vegetables and talk while you cook
  • Freeze half and plan a second visit later in the week

Why This Matters

Sharing a simple meal creates a natural pause — a chance to sit down, slow down, and connect. You don't need a big holiday gathering for social connection to make a difference.

— Kristen

Ingredients

Nutrition per serving

Calories
140
Protein
13 g

Serving: 1 bowl (1/4 of the recipe). Estimated from USDA values for the ingredients listed, so your numbers will vary with the brands you use.

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook until soft (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add garlic, carrots, and celery; cook another 3–4 minutes.
  4. Pour in broth and tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add chicken or beans and cook 10–15 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with herbs if you like.
An older woman and a younger woman laughing together over mugs of coffee on a sofaShared in this letterSocial Connection: A Strong Predictor of LongevityRead the letter →

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