BLT Soup

8 slices crisply cooked bacon

28-oz. can crushed tomatoes

14.5-oz. can chicken broth

15-oz. can cooked white beans (cannellini or navy)

1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

1 cup shredded leaf lettuce

1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves

Coarsely crumble bacon and set aside. In 2-quart saucepan, stir together tomatoes, broth, beans and seasoning. Bring to a simmer; stir in vinegar. In small bowl, toss together lettuce & basil. Ladle soup into large soup plates or bowls; garnish each serving with crumbled bacon and lettuce & basil. Serves 4.

Serving Suggestions

No one said that the tomato in a BLT had to be sliced. This fresh soup is quickly made and goes well with grilled cheese sandwiches.

Nutrition Facts: 240 calories; 12 grams protein; 9 grams fat; 1370 milligrams sodium; 15 milligrams cholesterol; 29 grams carbohydrates.