Hot & Spicy Pumpkin Soup

A fast & no-fuss soup that is very filling & extremely low fat. Fits well into any Weight Watchers plan. Can be made with either vegetable or chicken broth. Try the vegetable for a nice change of pace!

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped carrot (1 medium)
• 1⁄2 cup  finely chopped onion (1 medium)
• 2  finely minced garlic cloves
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper (more or less to taste)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  ground red pepper (more or less to taste)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger (can use fresh if on hand)
• 1  quart  vegetables or 1  quart chicken broth
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can diced tomatoes (Italian-style stewed tomatoes, can be substituted for plain diced tomatoes to lend a spicier flavor.)
• 1⁄4 cup  fat-free half-and-half
•  olive oil

Directions

1. In a dutch oven, heat enough olive oil to just coat the bottom. Add the onions and garlic & cook until they are softened.
2. Mix in the pumpkin, carrots, tomatoes, broth, and spices. Cook for 20-30 minutes on medium-low heat.
3. Stir in the fat free half & half before serving.