Hearty Vegetable Soup - Easy Recipes

Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

This hearty vegetable soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With a blend of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a rich broth, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. The story behind this recipe is simple: it’s inspired by the need for a wholesome, warming meal that’s easy to prepare yet full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a filling lunch, this vegetable soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this soup provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious soup ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: This recipe is highly adaptable. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover produce.
Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Variations

Protein Boost: Add beans (like chickpeas or white beans) or cooked lentils for extra protein.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
Creamy Version: Stir in some coconut milk or cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
Grains: Add cooked quinoa, rice, or barley for a more filling soup.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove before serving.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
Protein: 4-5 grams
Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
Fiber: 5-7 grams
Fat: 3-5 grams

FAQ

Can I use different vegetables?
- Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this soup more filling?
- You can add cooked grains like quinoa or rice, or even some pasta for a heartier soup.

Ingredients List

2 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
1 cup of green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 red bell pepper (optional, diced)
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon of olive oil or any cooking oil
1 teaspoon of dried herbs (like thyme or oregano)
Salt and pepper to taste
4-6 cups of vegetable broth or water
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Slice the carrots and zucchinis, dice the potatoes and red bell pepper, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.
Add Vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes to allow the vegetables to start softening.
Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), and add the dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add Peas and Zucchini: About 10 minutes before the soup is done, add the green peas and zucchini. Continue simmering until they are cooked through.
Finish and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

This vegetable soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday meal or serving it as a starter for a dinner party, this soup is sure to satisfy. Plus, with its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.