Remember those New Year’s resolutions to eat right and exercise? If that didn’t work out for you don’t despair, spring is in the air. Baby blue skies and springtime blooms announce it’s the quintessential time for new beginnings and fresh starts. One way to start is a 30 minute walk and a light but satisfying dinner.

One recipe to help kick start some healthy new habits is Thai Coconut Chicken Soup. Although, it is a soup for all seasons, it is perfect for spring with its fresh aromatic flavors.

Quick and easy to prepare, this soup served over rice noodles or rice is ideal for a last minute dinner. Time to go outside savor the warm fresh air, colorful spring flowers, and sunshine.

Easy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Serves 5 -6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Soup Ingredients:

1 Tablespoon canola oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 – 14 oz. cans light unsweetened coconut milk

4 cups low sodium chicken broth

2 cups shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced

1 cup carrots, sliced

3 Tablespoons freshly grated ginger root

¼ cup lemongrass, finely chopped *

2 Tablespoons low sodium soy sauce

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 – 2 teaspoons red curry paste (This is not essential if you don’t like a little spicy zip in your soup.)

1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon sea salt

1 ½ lb. chicken, thinly sliced (About 2 skinless chicken breasts, or 6 -8 skinless chicken thighs)

*If lemongrass is unavailable, 2 Tablespoons of fresh lemon juice is a good substitute.

Topping Ingredients:

½ cup green onions, thinly sliced

½ cup Thai basil or other basil, sliced (Substitute with dried basil if fresh is unavailable and add while soup is cooking.)

1 cup Cilantro leaves

¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed if available)

Brown or white rice noodles or brown or white rice (optional)

Directions:

In a large 4 -5 quart saucepan lightly sauté garlic in oil and then add remaining soup ingredients except for the chicken. Bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Next add chicken and simmer for 10 minutes or until the thickest part of the chicken is cooked through. Just before serving, add the topping ingredients and lightly stir. Serve over cooked rice noodles or steamed rice. Enjoy!