This Quick Vegetable Soup is a comforting dish that comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with fresh vegetables for a healthy boost
- Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick meal
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and spices
The Benefits of Homemade Soup
Homemade soup is not only a comforting dish but also an excellent way to pack nutrition into your meals. By making your own soup, you control the ingredients, ensuring that everything is fresh and free from preservatives. This Quick Vegetable Soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for any time of the year.
Furthermore, soup can be a fantastic way to utilize leftover vegetables in your fridge. Rather than letting produce go to waste, simply chop them up and throw them into your pot. This not only reduces food waste but also encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Customizing Your Vegetable Soup
One of the best features of this Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. For example, feel free to add leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost or incorporate root vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes for added heartiness.
Additionally, spice enthusiasts can elevate this soup by adding herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes. Not only do these additions enhance the flavor profile, but they also introduce various health benefits, making your soup even more nourishing and satisfying.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
This Quick Vegetable Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld together, making it even tastier on the second or third day. Just make sure to let the soup cool completely before storing it to maintain its freshness.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is simple. Just pour the soup into a pot over medium heat and stir until warmed through. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoying homemade soup has never been easier!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Vegetable Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to adjust the vegetables according to your taste!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Zucchini
Stir in the garlic and zucchini, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine with Broth and Tomatoes
Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer and Season
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade vegetable soup!
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To ensure your Quick Vegetable Soup turns out perfectly every time, start with sautéing your aromatics—onions, garlic, and carrots—before adding the broth. This step builds a rich flavor base that enhances the overall taste of the soup. Don't rush this process; allowing the vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness is key.
Another tip is to taste as you go! After adding the broth and tomatoes, take a moment to taste your soup before it simmers. This helps you adjust the seasoning right from the beginning, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Vegetable Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or a warm, toasted baguette for dipping. A simple side salad can also complement the meal, adding freshness and crunch.
For an extra touch, consider topping your soup with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream. These additions can add creaminess and richness, enhancing the overall experience of this hearty dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver.
→ How long can I store leftover soup?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan.
→ What spices can I add for more flavor?
Try adding basil, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetable Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the garlic and zucchini, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g