Grandma’s recipes hold a special place in our hearts, bringing back cherished memories and comfort. One such recipe that has been passed down in our family is Grandma’s wonderful vegetable soup. I make this soup every day, and it never fails to fill our home with a delightful aroma and our hearts with warmth. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and homemade croutons makes this soup a hit for the whole family. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this incredible vegetable soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- 3 stalks of celery
- 1 carrot
- 1 sweet red pepper
- 1 sweet orange pepper
- 1 zucchini
- 2 potatoes
- 1 chili pepper
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Thyme
- 1 liter vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Parsley
For the Croutons:
- 3 slices of bread
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Dried garlic
- Parmesan
- Thyme
Instructions
Preparing the Soup:
- Sauté the Onion:
- Finely chop 1 onion.
- Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Vegetables:
- Chop 3 stalks of celery, 1 carrot, 1 sweet red pepper, and 1 sweet orange pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the chopped vegetables to the pot with the onion.
- Stir the vegetables together, ensuring they are well coated with the olive oil.
- Incorporate Zucchini and Potatoes:
- Dice 1 zucchini and 2 potatoes into small cubes.
- Add the zucchini and potatoes to the pot.
- Mix all the vegetables thoroughly to combine.
- Spice it Up:
- Finely chop 1 chili pepper and 2 cloves of garlic.
- Add the chili pepper and garlic to the pot.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
- Stir everything together to evenly distribute the spices.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables simmer on medium heat for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Add Broth and Cook:
- Pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Peas and Finish Cooking:
- Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas.
- Let the soup cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
- Garnish with Parsley:
- Finely chop a handful of fresh parsley.
- Add the parsley to the soup just before serving.
- Give the soup a final stir to incorporate the parsley.
Preparing the Croutons:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Cut 3 slices of bread into small cubes.
- Place the bread cubes in a mixing bowl.
- Season the Croutons:
- Drizzle the bread cubes with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt, dried garlic, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of thyme.
- Toss the bread cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Bake the Croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool.
Cooking Tips
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables. This soup is very versatile and can be customized to your liking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper based on your preference for spiciness. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the chili or omit it altogether.
- Broth: Use homemade vegetable broth for a richer flavor. If using store-bought broth, opt for a low-sodium variety to control the salt content.
- Crouton Alternatives: If you don’t have Parmesan, other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano work well. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices for the croutons.
Nutritional Benefits
- Onion: Rich in antioxidants and supports immune health.
- Celery: Low in calories and high in fiber, promoting digestive health.
- Carrot: Excellent source of beta-carotene, which is good for vision.
- Peppers: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Zucchini: Provides vitamins A and C, and is low in calories.
- Potatoes: Good source of potassium and fiber.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Peas: High in protein and fiber, making the soup more filling.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The blend of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a soup that is bursting with flavor.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this soup is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
- Comforting: The warm, hearty nature of this soup makes it perfect for any season, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bowl.
- Versatile: This soup can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a starter, or even a main course with the addition of some crusty bread or croutons.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This soup is completely vegetarian, making it suitable for those who follow a plant-based diet.
- Vegan: To make this soup vegan, ensure the croutons are made without Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for the croutons to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
- Nut-Free: This recipe does not contain any nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balance of Flavors: The combination of sweet and spicy peppers, hearty potatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a well-rounded and satisfying flavor profile.
- Texture: The variety of vegetables provides different textures, making each bite interesting. The croutons add a delightful crunch.
- Simplicity: Using everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible and achievable for everyone.
- Nutrient-Dense: The diverse range of vegetables ensures you get a balanced intake of essential nutrients in one meal.
- Customizable: This recipe serves as a great base that you can tweak according to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Conclusion
Grandma’s wonderful vegetable soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and joy to any table. The combination of fresh, nutritious vegetables and aromatic herbs makes this soup a go-to for any occasion. The homemade croutons add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making this soup not only delicious but also satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal, a comforting dish on a chilly day, or simply a way to enjoy fresh vegetables, this soup is the perfect choice. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones, and create your own cherished memories around the dinner table.