If you’re looking for a hearty and healthy meal, this vegetable soup recipe is the perfect option. Packed with nutritious vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini, this soup is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 potatoes, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of kidney beans
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, and chopped carrots to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped potatoes, chopped zucchini, can of diced tomatoes, can of kidney beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, and dried basil to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
This vegetable soup recipe is very versatile, so feel free to get creative with the ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap out the vegetables: If you don’t have some of the vegetables listed in the recipe, feel free to swap them out for others. Some great options include bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash.
- Add protein: If you want to make this soup a bit more filling, try adding some protein. Cooked chicken or turkey would be great options, or you could add some cooked quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Make it spicy: If you like things spicy, try adding some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup.
Conclusion
This vegetable soup recipe is a great option for a healthy and comforting meal. Packed with nutritious vegetables and easy to customize, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep - make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
FAQ
Can I use any vegetables for this soup?
Yes, you can use any vegetables of your choice for this soup. However, it is recommended to use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Just add all the ingredients and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can add meat to this soup. Simply brown the meat before adding it to the soup and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor. You can also use chicken or beef broth if you prefer.
Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned vegetables instead of fresh ones. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup.
Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?
Yes, you can add pasta or rice to this soup. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Can I blend this soup for a smoother texture?
Yes, you can blend this soup for a smoother texture. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones. However, you will need to use less as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I add dairy to this soup?
Yes, you can add dairy to this soup. Cream or milk can be added at the end of cooking for a creamier texture.
