Name: Vegetable Soup: 5 Hearty Recipes for Comfort and Health
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or red); 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup green peas; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 bay leaf; 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped; salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetable Soup has been my go-to dish for years, especially during the chilly months. This colorful, comforting, and healthy one-pot recipe is packed with fresh or frozen vegetables simmered in a savory broth. It’s not just a simple meal; it’s a nourishing hug in a bowl. Whether you need a quick dinner solution or something comforting for meal prep, this easy vegetable soup is a perfect choice, and it’s gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Soup (Note: 6-8 benefits; add 2 Column D keywords + 1 JSON.Details tag.)

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Vegetable Soup. First, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to use seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Second, this recipe is perfect for busy nights as it takes just 45 minutes to prepare, including prep time. Third, it’s a healthy choice as it’s low in calories, making it a great option for low-calorie vegetable soup options. Furthermore, the use of vegetable broth enhances the flavor while keeping it plant-based. This veggie stew is not only satisfying but also a great way to pack in nutrients, making it a nutrient-packed vegetable soup that benefits your health.

Ingredients for Vegetable Soup

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or red)
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup green peas
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Vegetable Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Stir in carrots and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), bay leaf, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, until potatoes and carrots are nearly tender.
Step 5: Add green beans, peas, corn, and spinach or kale. Simmer for 5-7 more minutes.
Step 6: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Vegetable Soup

Keep these in mind:

This soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Make sure to chop your veggies uniformly for even cooking.
Feel free to add beans for a chunky vegetable soup with beans.
This soup is gluten-free and freezer-friendly, making it a great option for busy lifestyles.

Best Ways to Serve Vegetable Soup

When it comes to serving your delicious vegetable soup, consider these ideas:

Pair it with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Top with avocado or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete healthy meal.

How to Store and Reheat Vegetable Soup

To store your vegetable soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth if it has thickened. Simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. This makes it easy to enjoy homemade vegetable soup any time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegetable Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Vegetable Soup?

The secret lies in using a variety of fresh vegetables and a flavorful vegetable broth. This enhances the taste and creates a robust flavor profile. Don’t forget the seasoning!

Can I make Vegetable Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Vegetable Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the vegetables. They should be tender but still retain some crunch. Also, taste your soup as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly!

Variations of Vegetable Soup You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

For a creamy twist, try adding coconut milk for a creamy vegetable soup variation.
Add a kick by incorporating chili peppers for a spicy vegetable soup for warmth.
Make it a chunky veggie stew by adding more beans and grains.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables for a fresh take on this classic recipe.

Vegetable Soup: 5 Hearty Recipes for Comfort and Health - Vegetable Soup - main visual representation

For more tips on healthy eating, check out this article that discusses the benefits of incorporating more vegetables into your diet.

Vegetable Soup: 5 Hearty Recipes for Comfort and Health - Vegetable Soup - additional detail

Lastly, if you’re looking for more recipes, visit this page for additional healthy meal ideas.