Vegetable Soup Recipe

Warm, comforting, and packed with nutritious veggies, vegetable soup is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this versatile soup can fit the bill. Ready to warm up your kitchen with the delightful aromas?

Why make this recipe?

Making vegetable soup is not just about creating a delicious meal; it’s also a wonderful way to use up leftover vegetables. This recipe is quick, easy, and allows you to customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies. Plus, it’s a healthy option, low in calories, and filled with vitamins. What’s not to love? 🥦🥕🍅

How to prepare Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
• 1 onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 carrots, diced 🥕
• 2 celery stalks, diced 🌿
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 1 zucchini, diced 🥒
• 1 bell pepper, chopped 🌶️
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut 🌱
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes 🍅
• 4 cups vegetable broth 🍲
• 1 teaspoon thyme 🌿
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Add zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Mix well and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
8. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to serve Vegetable Soup

Serve your vegetable soup hot, with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. It can also be paired with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. 🌿🍞

How to store Vegetable Soup

Store any leftover vegetable soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the soup to cool before refrigerating. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. ❄️🥣

Tips for preparing Vegetable Soup

• Feel free to adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand.
• For added protein, include beans or lentils.
• To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. 🍋

Variations

• Add some grains: Quinoa or rice can be included for a heartier soup. 🍚
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. 🌶️
• Creamy version: Stir in some coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture. 🥥

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly in this soup and can save time on prep!

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Just ensure the vegetable broth you use is gluten-free.

3. How can I make it more filling?
   You can add cooked pasta, rice, or beans to make it more substantial. 🍝

Enjoy your homemade vegetable soup, and feel free to share it with friends and family! Happy cooking! 🌟