Vegetable Soup Recipe

Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of homemade vegetable soup. This recipe is not only comforting but also packed with nutritious veggies that make it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. Whether you’re looking to clear out your fridge or enjoy a hearty dish, vegetable soup is versatile and quick to prepare.

Why make this recipe?

Making vegetable soup is not only a great way to eat healthier, but it also allows you to customize it based on your preferences. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a fantastic option for reducing food waste. Plus, it’s inexpensive, nourishing, and can be made in just under an hour!

How to prepare Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 🥄 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 🧅 1 onion, chopped
• 🥕 2 carrots, diced
• 🥬 2 celery stalks, diced
• 🧄 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 🍆 1 zucchini, diced
• 🌶️ 1 bell pepper, diced
• 🍅 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 🥣 4 cups vegetable broth
• 🌿 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 🌿 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
• 🥗 2 cups spinach or kale

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. 🥄
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. 🧅
3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. 🥕🥬
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. 🧄
5. Add the diced zucchini and bell pepper, stirring to combine. 🍆🌶️
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. 🥣🍅
7. Season with dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. 🌿🧂
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. ⏱️
9. Stir in the spinach or kale and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes. 🥗
10. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

How to serve Vegetable Soup

Serve the vegetable soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of your favorite yogurt for extra creaminess. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad to make a complete meal. 🍞🥗

How to store Vegetable Soup

Allow any leftover soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened.

Tips for preparing Vegetable Soup

• Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
• You can blend the soup for a smoother texture if desired.
• Feel free to add quinoa, beans, or lentils for more protein.

Variations

You can customize your vegetable soup in numerous ways:

• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, beans, or lentils.
• Change the broth: Use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

FAQs

1. Can I add different vegetables?
Absolutely! Use any vegetables you enjoy or need to use up.

2. Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this vegetable soup is 100% vegan as it uses vegetable broth.

3. How can I thicken my vegetable soup?
To thicken, you can blend a portion of the soup or add some cooked rice or potatoes to it.

Enjoy your homemade vegetable soup — it’s sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to your table! 🍲