This rich-tasting soup is anything but rich, as mushrooms are very low in calories. You can serve it as an appetizer or add an entree salad to make a light meal.

NATALIE CAUDILL/DMN; food styling by ANNE GREER McCANN/Special Contributor

From a box, not a can: This soup can be made in about 15 minutes.

Many of the new boxed soups are quite good, but they need a little enhancing to create something special. Imagine's Creamy Portobello Mushroom Soup can be found at Whole Foods Markets or in the specialty section of high-end supermarkets. The au jus adds additional flavor without many calories, and the entire preparation takes fewer than 15 minutes.

You can buy sliced mushrooms and diced red onions at most supermarkets. The sour cream garnish is not essential but adds to the presentation.

Anne Greer McCann is a Dallas author and restaurant consultant

Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add onions and fresh mushrooms and sauté, stirring constantly, until lightly browned, just a few minutes. Add sliced mushrooms, including the liquid, and contents of the soup package. Stir in Au Jus mix and sherry and bring to a simmer. Simmer 3 to 4 minutes, then add scallions or chives.

Pour the hot soup into soup bowls. If using the sour cream garnish, drop several teaspoons on top of each soup serving, then run the tip of a knife blade through each one to make a swirl.

If you make the soup in advance, you may need to thin it with a small amount of chicken broth as it tends to thicken over 24 hours. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

Note: Thin ½ cup sour cream with 1 to 2 tablespoons nonfat milk.

PER SERVING:

Calories