This Hearty Vegetable Soup is packed with nutritious vegetables, making it the perfect comfort food for cold days. The blended finish creates a creamy, velvety texture without the need for cream, making it a healthy and filling meal. You can add your favorite vegetables and seasonings for a personalized touch.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Directions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the Remaining Vegetables:
- Add the diced potato, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir well, and bring the soup to a boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Remove the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Add Final Touches:
- If using, stir in the spinach or kale and let it wilt in the hot soup. Add lemon juice for brightness if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Ladle the blended soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Pair with a side of fresh salad for a light but filling meal.
- Serve with a protein of your choice like grilled chicken or tofu for added nutrition.
- Top with croutons for extra crunch.
Cooking Tips:
- Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand—this soup is very versatile.
- If you want a chunkier soup, blend just half of the soup and leave the rest for texture.
- For a vegan version, ensure the vegetable broth is plant-based and skip any dairy toppings.
- You can make the soup ahead of time, as it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Packed with a variety of vegetables, this soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- The vegetables provide antioxidants, which support immune function and overall health.
- A great source of hydration and low in calories, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
Dietary Information:
- Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian, Vegan (if plant-based broth and no dairy toppings are used), Gluten-Free.
- Suitable For: Clean eating, Weight-loss, High-fiber diets.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s comforting and filling, perfect for chilly days.
- Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- The blended texture makes it feel rich and creamy without the need for heavy cream or dairy.
- You can customize the veggies and seasonings to suit your taste or what’s in season.
- Great for meal prep—make a big batch and have it ready for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
Conclusion: This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s full of nutrients. With its creamy texture and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup is a perfect option. Easy to prepare, healthy, and customizable, it’s a must-try recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables for this soup?
- Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pot and cook as usual.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I use other types of broth?
- Yes, you can use chicken or beef broth if you’re not following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Can I make this soup without blending it?
- Yes! If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step and enjoy the texture of the vegetables.
- Can I add meat to this soup?
- Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for extra protein.
- How do I make this soup spicier?
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the cooking process.
- Can I make this soup creamier?
- Yes, you can stir in some coconut milk or a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer texture.
- Can I add beans or lentils to the soup for more protein?
- Absolutely! Beans and lentils are great additions to this soup and will make it heartier.
- What can I use instead of potatoes?
- You can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or butternut squash for a different flavor.
- Can I skip the lemon juice?
- Yes, but it adds a nice balance and brightness to the soup. If you skip it, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a few fresh herbs for flavor.