As the full-time managing editor of Dressage Today, wife, mother of two children (9 and 6) and mother of two dogs, two horses and other various small pets, I must find quick and easy ways to prepare healthy meals. During the colder months, my go-to meals are hearty (but healthy) soups. The family loves them and they’re perfect after a cold morning or afternoon ride. Here’s one that’s become a Mellace (pronounced Mell-a-chee) favorite.

Ingredients

2 Slices bacon finely chopped (optional)

1/4 cup onion – finely chopped

1/4 cup red pepper – finely chopped

1 clove garlic – minced

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 1/2 cups black beans

1 cup corn kernels

1 cup pumpkin puree

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1. Cook bacon in large, heavy soup pot until crisp
2. Add garlic, onion and pepper and sautee for 2 minutes
3. Add broth and remaining ingredients
4. Bring to a boil and reduce and simmer
5. Simmer for 20 minutes until flavors blend well

Quick side tip: Leftover soup is perfect for those of us on the go. Simply freeze a portion in a Tupperware container and microwave for a quick and healthy meal. Added benefit of freezing? No messy spills during transit.

Follow Jennifer’s 31-Day Challenge progress at blogs.equisearch.com/work-and-play-at-dt.