With the weather getting colder, this is hands down my favorite soup!

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by chopping your onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. The vegetables form the base of the soup, so make sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. If you’re adding leafy greens like spinach or kale, chop them into smaller pieces as well.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step helps to bring out the natural sweetness in the vegetables.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Potatoes

Once the vegetables are softened, add the broth and the potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Add Your Protein and Greens

If you’re adding any protein, now is the time to toss it in. You can use shredded cooked chicken, canned beans, or sliced sausage—each option adds a different flavor and texture to the soup. Next, stir in your leafy greens and let them wilt into the soup. If you’re using spinach or kale, these will cook quickly and absorb all the lovely flavors of the broth.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Once the vegetables and protein are cooked, it’s time to season your soup. Add garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves for depth of flavor. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy. A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also help brighten up the flavors.

Step 6: Make It Creamy (Optional)

If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a bit of cream or milk towards the end of cooking. This will create a silky texture that makes the soup even more indulgent.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is perfectly cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of richness.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

1. Comforting and Hearty: This soup is full of nourishing ingredients that warm you from the inside out. The combination of vegetables, potatoes, and protein makes it both filling and satisfying.
2. Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cooking time, this soup is perfect for those days when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also great for meal prep, so you can have leftovers for days!
3. Customizable: The beauty of this soup is its flexibility. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or personal taste preferences. Add more vegetables, swap the greens, or switch up the protein—there’s no wrong way to make it.
4. Packed with Flavor: Thanks to the aromatic vegetables, savory broth, and fragrant herbs, this soup is loaded with layers of flavor. It’s comforting and satisfying with just the right balance of richness and freshness.
5. Perfect for Cold Weather: Whether it’s a snowy winter day or a crisp fall evening, there’s no better way to warm up than with a big bowl of this comforting soup. It’s the ideal cold-weather meal.

Conclusion

As the weather gets colder, there’s no better way to stay cozy and satisfied than with a bowl of hearty, comforting soup. This recipe is the perfect solution for those chilly days when you need something that not only warms you up but also fills you up with wholesome goodness. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless customization possibilities, this soup will quickly become your go-to cold-weather dish. So grab your ingredients, get your pot ready, and prepare to enjoy the ultimate cozy meal that will keep you coming back for more!