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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and easy.
2. Sauté the Base Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the Vegetables
Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir them well and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. These root vegetables will give the soup a hearty base and are packed with nutrients.
4. Add the Liquids and Tomatoes
Next, pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir everything together and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. The tomatoes add a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the other vegetables.
5. Simmer the Soup
Add the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. For a little heat, you can also add red pepper flakes, adjusting the amount based on your preference. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The longer you let the soup simmer, the more the flavors will develop and blend together.
6. Add the Remaining Vegetables
Once the base vegetables are tender, add the zucchini, green beans, and spinach (or kale) to the pot. Stir everything together and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the greens are wilted and the zucchini is tender.
7. Add Frozen Peas (Optional)
For a pop of color and a sweet bite, add 1/2 cup of frozen peas to the soup. These will cook quickly and enhance the soup’s texture without overpowering the other ingredients. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend part of the mixture for a creamier consistency.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give the soup a final taste test and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs, as needed. If you like your soup a little more flavorful, a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can be added just before serving for extra brightness.
9. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This will add a touch of freshness and color to the soup. Serve your vegetable soup with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this nourishing meal!
Why You’ll Love This Soup:
Warm and nutritious vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a soothing and satisfying experience with every spoonful. The combination of hearty vegetables, fresh herbs, and a flavorful broth makes this soup both filling and nourishing. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and fiber while enjoying a bowl of something wholesome and delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a starter before a main meal, this soup is versatile and adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs.
Health Benefits:
This vegetable soup is packed with vitamins and nutrients. The carrots, potatoes, and green beans provide essential vitamins A and C, while the spinach offers iron and calcium. The broth serves as a great base for hydration, and the olive oil provides healthy fats. With a low calorie count, high fiber, and an abundance of antioxidants, this soup is an excellent choice for boosting your immune system and supporting overall health.
Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, you can add beans (such as chickpeas or white beans) or shredded chicken. These additions will make the soup more filling while maintaining its wholesome flavor.
- Spicy Vegetable Soup: If you like your soup spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also experiment with spicy sausage or jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Herbed Soup: If you enjoy an herby flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil, rosemary, or dill during the cooking process. These herbs will infuse the soup with an aromatic fragrance.
- Creamy Soup: For a creamy twist, blend part or all of the soup once the vegetables are cooked. You can add a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or even a dollop of sour cream to make the soup creamy without losing its fresh vegetable flavors.
What to Serve With:
- Crusty Bread: A thick slice of crusty baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting classic combination.
- Salad: Serve a fresh green salad on the side for a light, refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
Final Thoughts:
Warm and nutritious vegetable soup is the epitome of comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re craving something light and healthy or just need a satisfying bowl to warm you up, this vegetable soup is the perfect solution. It’s simple, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The great thing about this recipe is its versatility—you can adjust the ingredients based on what’s in season, or what you have in your fridge. No matter how you make it, this soup will delight your taste buds and nourish your body with every spoonful. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of this classic dish that never goes out of style!
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