This hearty and nutrient-packed vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food for any day. Made with a rainbow of vegetables and topped with homemade croutons, it’s a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying dish. Perfect for boosting your immune system, this soup is a must-try!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the Croutons:
- 3 slices of bread, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon oregano
Directions
- Prepare the Soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add leeks, celery, carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in garlic, chili pepper, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cover and let the vegetables simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Croutons:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
- Spread seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Serve the Soup:
- Stir fresh parsley into the soup just before serving.
- Serve hot with crunchy croutons sprinkled on top.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with a light side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the cooked vegetables with broth before serving.
- Feel free to swap vegetables based on availability or preference.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing tang.
Nutritional Benefits
- Leeks and Onions: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immunity.
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, essential for vision and skin health.
- Potatoes: Provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and potassium.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information
- Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for plant-based diets.
- Low-Calorie: Great for weight management.
- Dairy-Free and Nut-Free: Suitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: ~4 g
- Carbohydrates: ~20 g
- Fat: ~6 g
- Fiber: ~4 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Croutons: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile and easily customizable.
- Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
- Comforting, flavorful, and satisfying for all seasons.
Conclusion
This Healing Vegetable Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, loaded with vitamins, and perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re battling a cold or just craving a nutritious meal, this soup will brighten your day. Pair it with crunchy croutons for an irresistible combo of flavors and textures!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, but it will no longer be vegetarian or vegan. - Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before freezing. - Can I add protein to the soup?
Yes, add cooked chicken, tofu, or beans for extra protein. - How can I make the soup spicier?
Add more chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper. - What can I substitute for fresh parsley?
Use fresh cilantro, dill, or basil instead. - Can I make the soup creamier?
Blend half the soup or add coconut milk or heavy cream. - How do I prevent soggy croutons?
Add croutons just before serving. - What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. - Can I skip the chili pepper?
Yes, for a milder flavor, omit the chili pepper. - Can I use frozen vegetables?