Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings together a medley of fresh vegetables in a warm, savory broth.
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch, it allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes
- Packed with wholesome, fresh vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner
A Healthy Choice for Any Occasion
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not just a meal; it's a wholesome way to fuel your body with essential nutrients. Each bowl is brimming with fresh vegetables that provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants vital for maintaining good health. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly evening or simply want a delicious way to work more veggies into your diet, this soup is the perfect solution.
Moreover, this soup is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add your favorite proteins for an extra boost. It's an excellent choice for anyone seeking a nutritious, satisfying dish that can be made in a snap.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the standout features of this Quick Vegetable Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store it in airtight containers for later use. This not only saves time during busy weekdays but also ensures you have a healthy meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.
Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully. Simply portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and you’ll have homemade soup at your fingertips for those days when you don’t feel like cooking. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and you have a comforting meal in minutes.
Customizing Your Soup
While this recipe provides a delicious base, don't hesitate to get creative! You can add grains like quinoa or rice for added texture and heartiness. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a kick.
Herbs and spices can also be adjusted according to your flavor preferences. Fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, can enhance the taste, while additional spices like cumin or paprika can add depth. The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the Garlic and Other Vegetables
Stir in the minced garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth and add salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Serve
Once the vegetables are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
This soup can be easily stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
Storage Tips
To keep your Quick Vegetable Soup fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider leaving out any starchy ingredients like potatoes or pasta, as they can become mushy upon reheating. Instead, add these ingredients fresh when serving for the best texture and flavor.
Health Benefits of Vegetables
Incorporating a variety of vegetables in your diet has numerous health benefits. For instance, carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is great for eye health, while zucchini provides hydration and is low in calories, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Green beans add fiber to the mix, promoting digestive health, while bell peppers are rich in vitamin C. This soup is a powerhouse of nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their overall health.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Quick Vegetable Soup experience, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a light salad. A slice of sourdough or whole-grain bread can make for a delightful dipping companion, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
For a heartier meal, serve the soup alongside a protein-rich dish, such as grilled chicken or a quinoa salad. This not only enhances the meal's nutritional profile but also provides a well-rounded dining experience that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them during the same step as the fresh vegetables.
→ How long can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for additional protein.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth, this soup is gluten-free.
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
This Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings together a medley of fresh vegetables in a warm, savory broth.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Once the vegetables are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 4g