The Everyday Vegetable Soup is a celebration of flavors and colors, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the natural goodness of garden vegetables. This soup combines the robustness of fresh peppers, carrots, and potatoes with the delicate flavors of mint, parsley, and a creamy yogurt-egg liaison, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup fits the bill. It’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weekday, yet impressive enough to serve at a casual gathering. Accompanied by crispy herbed cheese toast, this vegetable soup becomes a complete meal that nourishes the body and delights the taste buds.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- 1 carrot
- Salt
- 1/2 yellow pepper
- 1/2 green pepper
- 1 red pepper
- 3-4 potatoes
- 1.2L water (6 cups)
- Mint and parsley
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 100g yogurt (1/2 cup)
- 50g vermicelli
- Herbs of Provence
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Parmesan cheese
- Directions:
- In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in olive oil for 3-5 minutes.
- Add chopped carrot and a pinch of salt. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
- Add chopped yellow, green, and red peppers. Stir and cover with a lid. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes.
- Peel and dice the potatoes. Add them to the pot along with 1.2L of water, cover with a lid, and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Stir in chopped mint and parsley, and baking soda.
- In a bowl, whisk yogurt with 2 eggs. Temper the mixture with a bit of the hot soup broth, then slowly add it back into the soup pot.
- Stir in vermicelli, cover, and cook over medium heat for 12 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix olive oil with salt, Herbs of Provence, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Spread the olive oil mixture on bread slices, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot with crispy herbed cheese toast on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional Highlights
The Everyday Vegetable Soup is not only delightful to the palate but also offers a range of health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots, onions, and bell peppers are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus minerals like iron and magnesium.
- High in Fiber: Potatoes and carrots contribute to the high fiber content, which aids in digestion and provides a lasting feeling of fullness.
- Low in Calories: This soup is an excellent option for those monitoring their calorie intake as it is filling yet low in calories.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Adjust the Texture: Depending on your preference, you can puree the soup for a smooth texture or leave it chunky to enjoy the individual flavors of each vegetable.
- Herb Variations: While mint and parsley are used here, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil or thyme to vary the flavor profile.
- Protein Boost: For a protein-packed version, consider adding beans, lentils, or even shredded chicken to the soup.
- Creaminess Without Cream: The yogurt and egg mixture adds a delightful creaminess to the soup without the heaviness of cream. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute with coconut milk.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Serve the soup with a side of homemade herbed cheese toast or warm crusty bread for dipping.
- As a Starter: This soup makes an excellent start to a larger meal, especially when followed by a light main dish.
- With Salad: Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing and balanced meal.
Why This Soup is a Must-Try
Everyday Vegetable Soup is easy to make and can be prepared with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s a flexible dish that allows for customization based on your dietary needs or what’s currently in season. This soup is not just food; it’s comfort in a bowl, perfect for any day of the year. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a quick and satisfying meal, this soup is sure to uplift your spirits and satisfy your hunger.