A warm bowl of vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food that nourishes both the body and the soul. This Day and Night Delight Vegetable Soup is packed with a variety of vibrant vegetables, making it not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a starter for dinner, or a comforting meal to wind down your day, this soup is versatile enough to satisfy any craving. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a hearty broth makes this soup a go-to recipe for those seeking a nutritious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
Ingredients
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Celery: 1 bunch, chopped
- Carrot: 1 large, diced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Green or Yellow Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and diced
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable Broth: 200 ml (about 1 cup) + 1.5 liters (about 7 cups)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Pasta: 100 g (about 1/2 cup)
- Dried Parsley: To taste
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the chopped celery, diced carrot, and bell peppers (both red and green or yellow). Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Add the Potatoes and Flour:
- Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the pot, stirring them into the sautéed vegetables.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. The flour will help thicken the soup as it cooks.
- Incorporate the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in 200 ml of vegetable broth, stirring continuously to combine with the flour-coated vegetables. This creates a smooth base for the soup.
- Gradually add the remaining 1.5 liters of vegetable broth, stirring to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the dried parsley and bay leaves, stirring to incorporate the flavors.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Add the Pasta:
- Once the vegetables are tender, add the pasta to the pot. Stir well to distribute the pasta evenly throughout the soup.
- Continue to simmer the soup for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup and discard them.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread or crackers if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Pasta Choices: You can use any small pasta shape for this soup, such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo. Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrients.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, green beans, or spinach can be excellent additions to this soup.
- Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the pasta.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
This vegetable soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support a healthy diet:
- Onions and Garlic: Both onions and garlic are known for their immune-boosting properties. They contain antioxidants and compounds that have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- Carrots and Bell Peppers: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, essential for healthy vision and skin. Bell peppers, especially red ones, are high in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
- Celery: Celery is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, folate, and potassium. It also provides dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They provide energy through complex carbohydrates and also contribute fiber to the diet.
- Pasta: Adding pasta to the soup increases its carbohydrate content, providing a source of energy. Opt for whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Satisfying: This vegetable soup is a wholesome and satisfying meal that provides a variety of nutrients. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a delicious dish.
- Versatile: This soup is versatile enough to be served as a light lunch, a starter for dinner, or a comforting meal on its own. It can also be easily customized to include your favorite vegetables or pasta.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup is easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Comforting: There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup. The combination of soft vegetables, tender pasta, and flavorful broth creates a soothing dish that’s perfect for any time of day.
Dietary Information
- Calories: Approximately 150-180 calories per serving (depending on portion size and pasta used)
- Protein: 4-5 grams per serving
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams per serving
- Fats: 3-5 grams per serving
- Fiber: 4-5 grams per serving
This soup is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by ensuring the pasta and broth are plant-based. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Why This Recipe Works
This vegetable soup works because it combines a variety of fresh, wholesome ingredients that cook together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The use of a vegetable broth base enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables, while the addition of pasta makes the soup hearty and filling. The bay leaves and dried parsley add depth to the flavor, and the fresh parsley garnish brings a burst of freshness to each bite. The balance of textures—soft vegetables, tender pasta, and a light, savory broth—makes this soup a comforting and delicious choice for any meal.
Conclusion
Day and Night Delight Vegetable Soup is a perfect recipe for those seeking a nutritious and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with fresh vegetables and comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and provide the nourishment your body needs. So why not give it a try? With its delicious taste and health benefits, this vegetable soup is bound to become a favorite in your household.