Easy and Delicious Vegetable Soup Recipe

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the Oil: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

1. Cook the Hard Vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, and potato (or sweet potato) to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
2. Add the Zucchini and Green Beans: Next, add the zucchini and green beans to the pot. Stir everything together, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir to combine.
2. Season the Soup: Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, making sure the vegetables are evenly seasoned.
3. Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Add the Greens and Final Touches

1. Add the Leafy Greens: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the leafy greens (such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard). Let them cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Success:

• Customize the Veggies: This soup is highly customizable based on what vegetables you have on hand. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like parsnips, peas, corn, or even butternut squash for a different flavor profile.
• For Extra Protein: Add beans (like cannellini beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans) for added protein and fiber. Simply add the drained beans with the broth and simmer until heated through.
• Make it Heartier: For a more filling meal, add small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni) or quinoa to the soup. Just add the pasta about 10 minutes before the soup is done, or cook it separately and stir it in before serving.
• Freezer-Friendly: This soup makes an excellent make-ahead meal. Let it cool to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat.

Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Soup:

• Simple and Healthy: With a variety of fresh vegetables and a light, flavorful broth, this soup is packed with vitamins and nutrients—perfect for nourishing your body.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch of this soup at the start of the week, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-go meal for days. It’s just as tasty (if not better) the next day!
• Light yet Satisfying: This vegetable soup is light enough for a lunch or snack but filling enough to be a dinner. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something warm and comforting without being heavy.
• Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly: This soup is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for a variety of dietary needs.

Conclusion:

This Easy and Delicious Vegetable Soup is a staple in any kitchen for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It’s a fantastic way to get in a variety of healthy vegetables while enjoying a warm, satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup will surely become one of your go-to recipes. Plus, it’s a great way to clean out your fridge and use up leftover vegetables—making it as eco-friendly as it is tasty. Give it a try today and enjoy a bowl of comfort!