Vegetable Soup
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Vegetable Soup. It’s the kind of dish that takes me back to my childhood, where every spoonful was filled with love and warmth. I remember my grandmother stirring her giant pot on chilly fall evenings, the aroma of fresh vegetables wafting through the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Making Vegetable Soup is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together and creating memories. Each ingredient tells a story, from the vibrant colors of the chopped carrots to the rich, savory notes of the broth. I love how this recipe allows for creative expression—add whatever you have on hand, and it’ll still taste amazing! What’s more, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. So grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into this delightful dish!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Easy
150 kcal
4 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
3 g
Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Cutting Board, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot
Why This Vegetable Soup Stands Out
Health Benefits
One of the best things about Vegetable Soup is how wholesome it is. Packed with vitamins, it’s a great way to boost your immune system, especially as the temperatures drop. The combination of fresh vegetables means you’re getting a variety of nutrients in every bite. From the fiber-rich carrots to the antioxidant-loaded broccoli, each ingredient supports a healthy lifestyle.
Flexibility
Vegetable Soup is incredibly adaptable. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. Want to add some greens? Toss in some kale or spinach! Craving something heartier? Add beans or lentils for extra protein. This flexibility means you can enjoy this soup year-round without getting bored.
Quick and Easy
In a hurry? No worries! Vegetable Soup is quick to prepare and can be on the table in no time. With just a bit of chopping and sautéing, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about thirty minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have much time.
Comfort Food
On cold days, there’s nothing more satisfying than a steaming bowl of Vegetable Soup. It wraps you in warmth and comfort, providing a cozy haven from the chill outside. There’s an emotional connection with this dish that makes it feel like a hug in a bowl.
Great for Meal Prep
Another reason to love Vegetable Soup is that it’s ideal for meal prepping. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you’ll have nutritious lunches ready to go for the week. It stores well in the fridge, and the flavors only get better as it sits!
What’s In This Vegetable Soup
Let’s talk about the heart of our Vegetable Soup: the ingredients! Each component plays a crucial role in creating a flavorful, satisfying dish. The mix of vegetables not only adds color and texture but also packs a nutritional punch. Together, they create a delicious harmony that makes this soup a favorite in our household.
- Avocado oil: A healthy fat that enhances flavors and aids in nutrient absorption.
- Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the soup.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with a fragrant aroma and complements the vegetables beautifully.
- Vegetable broth: The base of the soup, providing richness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Russet potato: Adds heartiness and a creamy texture once cooked.
- Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, they bring color and nutrition.
- Zucchini: A light and tender addition that absorbs flavors well.
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins, it adds texture and a beautiful green hue.
- Vine-ripened tomatoes: These provide acidity and balance to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds an aromatic touch.
- Sea salt: Enhances flavors and ensures the soup is well-seasoned.
Cooking Instructions for Vegetable Soup
Making Vegetable Soup is as enjoyable as it is delicious! I love how this recipe unfolds step by step, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting meal. Follow along as we prepare this delightful soup together!
Start by adding avocado oil to a large stock pot and heat it over medium-high. Watch as the oil shimmers, signaling that it’s ready to go. This oil is perfect for sautéing, and it brings a lovely richness to our soup.
Next, toss in the yellow onion. Sauté it, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent, about five minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
Now, add the garlic and continue sautéing for another two minutes. Keep an eye on it—garlic can burn quickly, and we want just the right amount of nuttiness to complement our soup.
Pour the vegetable broth into the pot. This is where the magic starts to happen! Follow it up with the chopped russet potato and carrots. Cover the pot and bring everything to a full boil. The bubbling broth will signal that it’s time for the next steps.
Cook until the potato is soft yet slightly al dente, which should take about five minutes. Check the texture by piercing it with a fork; it should be tender but still firm. This step ensures that we maintain a pleasant bite in our soup.
It’s time to add the rest of our vibrant ingredients! Stir in the remaining vegetables, including zucchini, broccoli, and vine-ripened tomatoes. Mix well, cover, and return to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for five minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer your vegetables softer, feel free to cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring they reach your desired doneness.
Finally, take a moment to taste the soup. Adjust the flavor with sea salt as needed. The perfect seasoning will elevate your Vegetable Soup to new heights!
Serve the soup in big bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if you’d like. Enjoy the comforting warmth and the delightful combination of flavors!
Things Worth Knowing
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh vegetables enhances the flavor of your soup significantly. Aim for seasonal produce to get the best taste.
- Texture is Key: Pay attention to cooking times for each vegetable. Some will cook faster than others; you want a nice variety of textures in your soup.
- Simmer for Flavor: Letting the soup simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step!
- Storage Tips: Let the soup cool before storing it in airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to five days.
Tips for Success
To make the most of your Vegetable Soup, here are some helpful tips to ensure your cooking experience goes smoothly and the final result is delicious.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze Vegetable Soup for up to three months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Pairing: This soup goes wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add your favorite spices or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Beans for Protein: Adding one to three cans of beans, such as garbanzo beans or black beans, boosts the protein content and makes the soup even heartier.
Accompaniments for Vegetable Soup
When serving Vegetable Soup, think about the perfect accompaniments that will enhance your meal:
- Crispy Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, adding a delightful texture.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Cheese: Shaved or crumbled cheese like feta or parmesan can add a nice salty flavor to the soup.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Consider serving additional roasted vegetables alongside to complement the soup and add more nutrients.
- Lunch or Dinner: This soup is flexible enough for lunch or a cozy dinner, making it ideal for any occasion.
- Garnish: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top can brighten the presentation and enhance the flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Vegetable Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that can be tailored to your taste while offering a comforting, nourishing experience. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a perfect addition to your meal rotation, especially as the weather cools down. Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and joy that this soup brings to your table!
Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the avocado oil to a large stock pot and heat to medium-high. Add the yellow onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and continue sautéing another 2 minutes, until very fragrant.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and add the chopped russet potato and carrots. Cover, and bring to a full boil. Cook until potato is soft and just slightly al dente, about 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining ingredients, stir well, cover, and return to a boil. Once the soup comes to a full boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have reached desired done-ness. For very soft vegetables, cook an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Taste the soup for flavor and add more sea salt to taste.
- Serve in big bowls and enjoy!
Notes
- Tip 1: Add 1 to 3 cans of beans (garbanzo beans, black beans, white beans, cannellini beans, kidney beans, etc.) for some plant-based protein.
