Vegetable Soup with Noodles

This Vegetable Soup with Noodles is a comforting and nourishing dish packed with a variety of vegetables and hearty noodles. Perfect for any time of the year, this soup is light yet filling, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. The combination of potatoes, carrots, corn, and mushrooms provides a rich flavor profile, while the basil adds a touch of freshness. The noodles make the soup even more satisfying, turning it into a wholesome, one-pot meal. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the goodness of vegetables in a warm, cozy bowl.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 100 g mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 100 g corn (fresh or canned, drained)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Basil, to taste
  • 1 liter vegetable broth
  • 50 g noodles
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Add the chopped carrot and minced garlic, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
  • Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and become tender.

2. Add the Potatoes and Corn:

  • Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the corn (fresh or canned). Stir to combine.

3. Add the Broth and Seasoning:

  • Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the salt, black pepper, and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Cook the Soup:

  • Once the soup starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Add the Noodles:

  • Once the vegetables are cooked through, add the noodles to the soup and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

6. Final Touches:

  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or basil, if desired.

7. Serve:

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread: Pair this soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt: For extra creaminess, top the soup with a spoonful of sour cream or a dollop of yogurt.
  • Pair with a salad: Serve the soup with a light salad, such as a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, to balance the meal.

Cooking Tips

  • Use homemade broth: If possible, use homemade vegetable broth for added flavor, though store-bought broth works well too.
  • Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans for a more diverse flavor.
  • Make it spicier: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the soup.
  • Make ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Variations to Try

  • Add beans: For added protein and fiber, throw in a can of beans, such as white beans or chickpeas.
  • Use different noodles: You can use any type of noodle you like, such as elbow macaroni, egg noodles, or even rice.
  • Add a protein: To make the soup more filling, add some cooked chicken, tofu, or sausage.

Nutritional Benefits

This Vegetable Soup with Noodles is packed with essential nutrients. The vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber for digestive health. The noodles add carbohydrates for energy, while the corn and potatoes contribute a good dose of vitamins and minerals. Basil and parsley provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup not only delicious but also nourishing for your body.

Conclusion

This Vegetable Soup with Noodles is a simple, wholesome, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its vibrant vegetables, comforting broth, and tender noodles, it’s a meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch, this soup is sure to warm you up and keep you full.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving.

  2. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. Reheat it on the stove when ready to serve.

  3. Can I use other types of noodles? Absolutely! You can use any type of noodle you like, such as elbow macaroni, egg noodles, or rice noodles.

  4. Can I add meat to the soup? Yes, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or turkey for added protein.

  5. How can I make this soup gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free noodles or substitute the noodles with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.