Turkey Sausage and Black Bean Soup

When I need something really quick for dinner, I usually rely on smoked turkey sausage. Since it's fully cooked, all it needs is to be heated. Smoked turkey sausage provides a good source of protein and is low in fat - each serving has less than 10 grams of fat. I try to keep a couple of packages in the freezer for those hectic nights. It thaws quickly in the microwave and combines well with other foods for a fast meal. During the spring and summer, grilled smoked turkey sausage is a family favorite.

My family also enjoys Turkey Sausage and Black Bean soup on cool evenings. To keep the sodium content as low as possible, be sure to use reduced sodium chicken broth and no salt added black beans. The combination of smoked turkey sausage, green pepper, black beans and salsa guarantees a really good flavor. Frozen chopped green or red peppers can be used instead of fresh. No thawing is needed; just pour frozen from the bag and it will thaw and cook very quickly.


While the soup is heating, prepare cheese quesadillas. Just coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and place over medium high heat. Place a fat free flour tortilla in skillet and top with 1/2 cup shredded reduced fat chedder cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions. Cook 2 minutes on each side or until lightly browned. Remove from heat and keep warm. Repeat to make a second quesadilla. Cut each into 6 wedges. Serve 3 wedges with each serving of soup.

This soup is so popular with my family that I usually double it so maybe I will have enough for lunch the next day.

For less than $2 per serving, your family will think that you spent a lot of time and effort on this quick and easy meal. Just don't tell them any different!

I hope that your family enjoys this meal as much as mine. Happy cooking! Carrie