Can soup be healthy for the mind and soul as well as the body?

After all, the creators of all those “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books chose that title for a reason, right? Soup is most definitely the ultimate in “comfort food.”

In my continuing effort to make friends with colder weather, I thought maybe some creative fun with soup recipes would help.

I’m a fan of one-dish meals to begin with. Big fat deli-style sandwiches and salads where the prep (and clean up!) is over and done beforehand, and all you have to do then is eat.

Same with soups. I already love them, but I usually fall back on my favorites — split pea, chicken noodle, potato and tomato (not together, but I suppose you could?). My new goal is to broaden my soup recipe repertoire — expand, explore, experiment.

In my opinion, they are one of the easiest dishes to concoct. You can fudge a bit with the measurements and ingredients, go crazy with spices, and tailor it to your own tastes and whims while cleaning out the fridge and pantry of leftovers at the same time. Your grocery budget will be happier because you can stretch a bit on the meats while tossing in more healthy veggies and legumes.

Many foods and even whole meals can be converted to soups — spaghetti and meatballs, pizza, tacos. You might miss that crispy pizza crust, but you’ll appreciate the easy cleanup after spooning up the last scoop in your bowl. Add a sandwich or hot rolls on the side and you’ve got a great meal.

I keep a few canned soups on hand, but mostly as ingredients or emergency meals. Homemade soup is easy enough to make and besides, you’ll never find any ready-made ones that compare with the creativity (not to mention the savory scents) from your own kitchen.

Heading up my list was taco soup, which I’ve eaten many times at various functions, but have never made. I was surprised how easy it was to whip up and not much simmering time either. All the toppings are in one pot and with tortilla chips on the side, you still get that taco crunch.

I’ve already got a few others I’m eager to try. One is a Tuscan soup — Zuppa Toscana — my daughter-in-law served up during my last visit.

It’s supposed to replicate the Olive Garden offering with kale, sausage, potatoes and bacon. Another is a tortellini and spinach soup recipe from my sister-in-law — oh my, so delicious and hearty.

So, here’s to soup and the warmth it brings to our spirits and bodies during the months ahead!