This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a warm and comforting dish, perfect for any time of the year. Packed with fresh vegetables and seasoned with aromatic herbs, this soup is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one meal, and it’s perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a starter to a larger meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Celery Stalks: 2, chopped
- Carrots: 2, peeled and chopped
- Sweet Red Pepper: 1, chopped
- Sweet Orange Pepper: 1, chopped
- Courgette (Zucchini): 1, chopped
- Potatoes: 2, peeled and chopped
- Chili Pepper: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable Broth: 1 liter
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the chopped sweet red and orange peppers, courgette (zucchini), and potatoes to the pot. Stir well and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add the Aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped chili pepper and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Season the vegetables with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the vegetables are fully submerged.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Add the Peas:
- Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the frozen peas. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the peas through.
- Finish with Fresh Parsley:
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving, which adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the soup.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or on its own for a light, healthy meal.
Additional Information
Tips:
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or green beans for extra nutrition. You can also add cooked beans or lentils for more protein.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper to suit your taste. For a milder soup, you can omit the chili pepper or use less.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or mash some of the potatoes before serving.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Vegetable-Rich: This soup is loaded with a variety of vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
- Low-Calorie: It’s a light, low-calorie meal option, making it perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
- Heart-Healthy: The use of olive oil and a variety of colorful vegetables supports heart health and overall well-being.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Possible Questions:
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas. Just add them a bit earlier in the cooking process to ensure they are tender. - What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth if you’re not vegetarian, or even water, though the flavor may be less rich. Adding a vegetable bouillon cube to water is also a good alternative. - Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, diced chicken, turkey, or even sausage can be added for extra protein. Brown the meat in the pot first before adding the vegetables. - Is there a way to make this soup creamier?
To make the soup creamier, you can stir in some coconut milk, cream, or blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in. - Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. It can be made a day or two in advance and reheated when ready to serve. - What kind of potatoes are best for this soup?
Any type of potato will work, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and add a nice texture to the soup. - Can I add grains to this soup?
Yes, adding grains like quinoa, barley, or rice can make the soup more filling and nutritious. Just be sure to adjust the liquid if adding uncooked grains. - What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. - Can I add herbs other than parsley?
Yes, fresh basil, cilantro, or thyme can be added at the end for different flavor profiles. You can also use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. - How can I reduce the sodium content in this soup?
Use a low-sodium vegetable broth and be mindful of the salt added to the soup. You can also omit added salt and season to taste at the end.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a nourishing, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a variety of vegetables, this soup provides a rainbow of nutrients and is easy to customize to suit your tastes. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or pair it with bread or a salad, this soup is sure to warm you up and keep you satisfied. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—it’s a delicious way to stay healthy and energized!