Vegetable Soup

This Vegetable Soup is a healthy, comforting, and flavorful dish loaded with fresh vegetables and a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a nutritious meal, this soup is easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a great option for lunch or dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Customizable – Use any vegetables you have in your fridge.
• Great for meal prep – Makes a big batch and stores well for later.
• Naturally vegan and gluten-free – A wholesome option for any diet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (sliced)
• Celery (chopped)
• Bell pepper (diced)
• Zucchini (chopped)
• Green beans (chopped)
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Vegetable broth
• Tomato paste
• Potatoes (diced)
• Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Peas (frozen or fresh)
• Spinach or kale (chopped)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the vegetables: Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, green beans, and potatoes. Cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.
4. Cook until tender: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender.
5. Add final ingredients: Stir in corn, peas, and spinach or kale. Cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Protein boost: Add beans (chickpeas, kidney beans, or lentils) or tofu for extra protein.
• Grain addition: Stir in cooked quinoa, rice, or pasta to make it heartier.
• Spicy version: Add a dash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes.
• Creamy option: Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture or stir in coconut milk.
• Slow cooker method: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Frozen vegetables work well and reduce prep time.

What’s the best broth to use?

Vegetable broth is ideal, but you can use chicken broth if not vegetarian.

Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the onions, then add everything else and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.

How do I make the soup thicker?

Mash some of the potatoes or blend a portion of the soup for a thicker consistency.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned diced tomatoes work great and add extra flavor.

What other vegetables can I use?

Try mushrooms, cauliflower, cabbage, or sweet potatoes.

How do I make this soup more filling?

Add cooked pasta, rice, or beans to make it heartier.

Can I make this soup without oil?

Yes! Sauté the vegetables in a little water or broth instead.

What’s the best way to add extra flavor?

Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or add a splash of lemon juice.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Conclusion

This Vegetable Soup is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for meal prep. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warm, nourishing goodness!

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