This Hearty Vegetable Soup is brimming with fresh vegetables, creating a nutritious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. The blend of flavors from the vegetables, herbs, and spices ensures a satisfying and delicious experience. Ideal for a wholesome lunch or dinner, this soup is both flavorful and filling.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- Vegetables:
- 5 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Olive oil
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 chili pepper, chopped (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 100g mushrooms, sliced
- 100g frozen peas
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 100g tomato sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Italian herbs, to taste
- Hot water, as needed
- Fresh dill, chopped
Directions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and cube the potatoes.
- Chop the red pepper, chili pepper, celery, and onion. Slice the carrot and mushrooms. Mince the garlic.
- Fry the Potatoes:
- Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the cubed potatoes and fry until they start to turn golden brown.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped red pepper, chili pepper, celery, onion, carrot, and mushrooms to the pot.
- Stir well and cover with a lid. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Sauce:
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in 100g of tomato sauce, add salt, and Italian herbs to taste. Mix well and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add Water and Peas:
- Fill the pot with hot water until the vegetables are covered.
- Add the frozen peas and let the soup cook for another 5 minutes.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- The soup is ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
- With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Creaminess: Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips:
- Spiciness: For a spicier soup, add more chili pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Broth: Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- Additional Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more variety.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, beneficial for overall health.
- Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates for energy and are a good source of vitamin C and potassium.
- Mushrooms: Offer antioxidants and B vitamins, supporting immune function and energy levels.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free
- Low-Calorie: A healthy and low-calorie option
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nutritious: Packed with a variety of vegetables, offering a range of nutrients.
- Flavorful: A blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a delicious soup.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients make this recipe accessible.
- Versatile: Great for lunch or dinner, and easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables.
Conclusion: This Hearty Vegetable Soup combines nutritious ingredients with rich flavors to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a light lunch, it’s sure to be a favorite in your household. Savor the warmth and wholesome goodness of this delightful soup!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
- Yes, vegetable broth will add more depth of flavor to the soup.
- How can I make this soup spicier?
- Increase the amount of chili pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, zucchini, spinach, or any of your favorite vegetables can be added.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they should be added towards the end of cooking.
- What if I don’t have fresh dill?
- You can use dried dill or another herb like parsley.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It may taste even better the next day.
- How can I make the soup creamier?
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a splash of coconut milk.
- Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- What if I don’t have some of the vegetables?
- Feel free to substitute with other vegetables you have on hand.