This vegetable soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that you can enjoy every day. Packed with nutritious vegetables and seasoned with just a touch of olive oil, it’s both comforting and healthy. Perfect for a light lunch or as a starter for dinner, this soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 yellow pepper, diced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1.2 liters (6 cups) water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Sauté the Onion:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the grated carrot, diced green pepper, red pepper, yellow pepper, and diced potatoes to the pot.
- Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Add Water and Simmer:
- Pour in the 1.2 liters (6 cups) of water. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked and the soup is flavorful, remove it from the heat.
- Serve the soup hot, with a drizzle of olive oil on top if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- You can add other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
- For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Carrots and Peppers: Rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidants and supporting immune health.
- Potatoes: A good source of potassium and dietary fiber, making the soup filling and nutritious.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Storage:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This vegetable soup is light, nutritious, and full of flavor.
- It’s easy to make with simple ingredients, making it a perfect everyday meal.
- The combination of vegetables provides a comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Conclusion: This vegetable soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for daily enjoyment. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that you’ll love making again and again. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup is sure to hit the spot!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
- Yes, you can add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, celery, or tomatoes.
- How can I make the soup thicker?
- You can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some of the potatoes to thicken it.
- Can I add protein to the soup?
- Yes, you can add beans, lentils, or diced chicken for extra protein.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
- Yes, using vegetable broth will add more flavor to the soup.
- Is this soup suitable for freezing?
- Yes, this soup freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- What spices can I add for more flavor?
- You can add garlic, thyme, bay leaves, or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.
- How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft?
- Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove the soup from heat once the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape.
- What can I serve with this soup?
- Serve with a side of bread, a light salad, or a sandwich for a complete meal.