Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe

This easy vegetable soup is healthy, comforting, and perfect for any time of the year. Packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and a flavorful broth, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your preferences or based on what you have in your pantry. It’s an ideal way to warm up on a cold day and enjoy a wholesome meal.

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Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup spinach (or kale), chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the Vegetables:

1. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes: Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, and diced potato. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the zucchini and green beans: Stir in the zucchini and green beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:

1. Pour in the broth: Add the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) to the pot and bring it to a simmer.
2. Add the canned tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices.
3. Season the soup: Add dried oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the Greens and Optional Ingredients:

1. Add spinach or kale: If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow the greens to wilt and blend into the soup.
2. Add peas and corn: For extra texture and color, you can add frozen peas and corn in the last 5 minutes as well.

5. Adjust the Seasoning:

1. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. If you prefer a tangy flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vinegar.

6. Serve:

1. Remove the bay leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf.
2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

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Tips & Notes:

• Customization: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have in your fridge or what’s in season. Peas, corn, potatoes, and sweet potatoes all work wonderfully. You can also add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
• Protein addition: If you want to make the soup heartier, consider adding beans (like cannellini or kidney beans) or cooked chicken or beef. Lentils are also a great option for a plant-based protein boost.
• Spice it up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Broth options: For a richer flavor, you can use low-sodium chicken broth or beef broth. Alternatively, vegetable broth is a great option for a fully vegetarian or vegan soup.
• Storage: Leftover vegetable soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for freezing.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Vegetable Soup:

• Simple to make: With basic ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup is incredibly easy to put together.
• Healthy and customizable: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this soup can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.
• Comforting and filling: The combination of tender vegetables and a flavorful broth makes this soup warm, hearty, and satisfying.
• Perfect for meal prep: It’s an excellent option for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for quick, healthy lunches or dinners.

This easy vegetable soup is an all-around winner for cozy nights, a light lunch, or as a side to any meal. It’s nutritious, easy to make, and a great way to use up any leftover vegetables! Enjoy!