Introduction to Easy Vegetable Soup
Preparing homemade vegetable soup is a delightful way to incorporate more nutritious vegetables into your diet while enjoying a comforting meal. Did you know that making your own soup is not only cost-effective but also allows you to control the ingredients for healthier options? Store-bought soups often contain added preservatives and sodium, which can undermine your health goals.
Why make homemade vegetable soup? For starters, it’s incredibly easy and quick to whip up—a mere 40 minutes from start to finish! Plus, you can customize it to your taste and experiment with seasonal vegetables. Want something heartier? Toss in some turkey bacon or chicken ham for added protein. The beauty of this easy vegetable soup is its versatility; use whatever you have on hand, creating a unique flavor profile each time.
Especially in chilly weather, a warm bowl of vegetable soup can lift your spirits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it’s an excellent option for busy young professionals who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Curious to dive in? Let’s get cooking! For a detailed recipe, check out our complete guide below.
Ingredients for Easy Vegetable Soup
Creating a warming bowl of easy vegetable soup doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple list of ingredients that will bring your soup to life! Not only are these components easy to find, but they also allow for plenty of customization according to your preferences and what’s in season.
Essential Ingredients
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): A start for sautéing your veggies.
- Onion (2 cups chopped, about 1 large): Adds a robust flavor base.
- Carrots (1 ½ cups chopped, about 3-4): Naturally sweet and hearty.
- Celery (1 ½ cups chopped, about 2-3 stalks): Brings a nice crunch and aroma.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Deepens the flavor profile beautifully.
- Garlic (4 cloves minced): For that aromatic touch.
- Ground fennel seed (¾ teaspoon): A unique twist that enhances the soup.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (⅛ to ¼ teaspoon, optional): If you like a kick!
The Rest of the Ingredients
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz): Packed with juicy goodness.
- Vegetable broth (6 cups): Use homemade or store-bought for convenience. Check out our homemade vegetable broth recipe for ultimate flavor!
- Potatoes (2 cups chopped, 2 medium): For a filling texture.
- Cabbage (3-4 cups, chopped or shredded): An excellent way to add bulk.
- Bay leaves (2): Adds depth to the soup's flavor.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): For a pop of color and sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (½ teaspoon, optional): Brightens up flavors at the end.
This balanced blend not only offers a delectable taste but also makes for a nutritious meal perfect for any day of the week! Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite seasonal veggies. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Preparing Easy Vegetable Soup
Making a comforting bowl of easy vegetable soup is simpler than you might think! This recipe not only warms your soul but also gives you a nutritious boost. Let’s dive into the steps to create your own delicious pot of goodness.
Sauté the vegetables
To kick things off, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in 2 cups of chopped onion, 1½ cups of chopped carrots, and 1½ cups of chopped celery. What’s great about this step is you can enjoy the aromatic flavors as they begin to build. Stir often until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent—this should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
Add aromatics for depth
Now it’s time to amp up the flavor! Stir in 4 teaspoons of minced garlic, ¾ teaspoon of ground fennel seed, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes (⅛ to ¼ teaspoon should do). This combination cooks for just a minute but transforms your soup with layers of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Build the soup base with broth and veggies
Next, pour in a can of diced tomatoes (15 oz.) along with their juices, and add 6 cups of stock or broth—feel free to check out this homemade vegetable broth recipe if you want to go the homemade route! Toss in your 2 cups of chopped potatoes, 3 to 4 heaped cups of shredded cabbage, and 2 bay leaves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, partially cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat, and let it simmer quietly.
Let it simmer
Now for the fun part—let your soup simmer on low for about 20 minutes. This allows the potatoes and veggies to become beautifully tender. After this initial simmer, toss in 1 cup of frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Final touches and serving
Once your soup is ready, take the pot off the heat and remove the bay leaves. For a zesty finish, stir in ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice. This brightens up the flavors beautifully! Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper as needed. Serve your warm, hearty easy vegetable soup in bowls, and get ready for cozy moments ahead.
With each spoonful, you’ll relish the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of making a wholesome meal from scratch. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Variations on Easy Vegetable Soup
Seasonal Vegetable Swaps
Get creative with your easy vegetable soup by embracing seasonal ingredients. In spring, consider incorporating fresh asparagus or peas. During summer, zucchini, bell peppers, and corn can lend a vibrant touch. Fall is perfect for adding diced squash or sweet potatoes, while winter’s hearty root vegetables like parsnips and turnips can add depth to your bowl. Remember, the more colorful the veggies, the better! For recipe ideas, check out this guide on seasonal produce from EatFresh.
Adding Grains or Legumes
Transform your easy vegetable soup into a filling meal by incorporating grains or legumes. Quinoa, barley, or brown rice can add texture and sustained energy. You might also stir in a can of chickpeas or kidney beans for added protein and fiber. Not only do these additions enhance the nutritional value, but they also make the soup even more satisfying. If you’re looking to bulk it up, consider adding a cup of lentils about halfway through the cooking process, giving them time to simmer and absorb the flavors!
Cooking Notes for Easy Vegetable Soup
Making this easy vegetable soup is a breeze, but here are some helpful notes to elevate your cooking experience!
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what's in season or what you have on hand. For example, add kale or spinach instead of cabbage for a nutritional boost.
- Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings. If you prefer a spicy kick, adjust the crushed red pepper flakes. A dash of apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice at the end adds a delightful zing.
- Custom Serving Sizes: Got leftovers? This soup stores wonderfully! Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze in individual portions for quick meals later.
Enjoy crafting your own comforting bowl of vegetable soup! For more tips, check out our guide on homemade broth to really amp up the flavor.
Serving suggestions for Easy Vegetable Soup
Pair it with crusty bread
Nothing complements a warm bowl of easy vegetable soup quite like a slice of crusty bread. Imagine the satisfying crunch as you dip it into the savory broth. Whether it's a freshly baked baguette or a hearty sourdough, the bread adds texture and substance. Don’t shy away from spreading a little butter or olive oil for extra flavor!
Serve as a light main or hearty starter
This versatile soup shines whether you serve it as a light main dish or a hearty starter. For a more filling meal, pair it with a simple side salad or your favorite protein, like grilled chicken or turkey bacon. Want to keep it plant-based? Add a scoop of quinoa or cooked lentils to make it even more satisfying.
Feel free to explore more pairings and create your perfect meal using some delicious bread as a side!
Time Details for Easy Vegetable Soup
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this easy vegetable soup is just 10 minutes. This quick prep means you can gather your ingredients and chop your veggies without feeling rushed. Grab your favorite knife and cutting board, and let’s get started!
Cooking Time
Once the chopping is done, the cooking time comes in at about 30 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will fill with delightful aromas as the vegetables soften and flavors meld beautifully. Perfect for a cozy evening or a weekend meal prep!
Total Time
In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to whip up this delicious soup. This means you can have a wholesome, homemade meal ready in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Serve it up with some crusty bread for a delightful finish. Need more time-saving tips? Check out our guide on how to cook quickly while making healthy meals!
Nutritional Information for Easy Vegetable Soup
Calories
Each serving of this easy vegetable soup contains approximately 137 calories, making it a great low-calorie option for a nutritious meal or snack.
Protein
With 3.2 grams of protein per serving, this soup provides a healthy dose of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Sodium
The sodium content sits at about 677.5 mg per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth or adjusting the seasoning to suit your needs.
FAQs about Easy Vegetable Soup
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This easy vegetable soup can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Just make the soup, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for later enjoyment—perfect for busy weeknights!
What are some healthy additions?
Want to boost the nutritional value? Consider adding:
- Leafy greens like kale or spinach for extra vitamins.
- Legumes such as lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
- Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice to make it even heartier.
Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!
How do I store leftover soup?
Leftover easy vegetable soup can be easily stored in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, portion it into individual servings and freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a delicious meal anytime!
Conclusion on Easy Vegetable Soup
In summary, this easy vegetable soup is a fantastic way to nourish yourself without much hassle. With its versatile ingredients, it adapts to whatever you have on hand, making it perfect for any season. Try it today and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!
Easy Vegetable Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chopped onion 1 large
- 1.5 cups chopped carrot 3 to 4 carrots
- 1.5 cups chopped celery 2 to 3 stalks
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic 4 cloves
- 0.75 teaspoon ground fennel seed
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt plus more to taste
- 0.125 to 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat
Base Ingredients
- 1 can (15oz) diced tomatoes with their liquid
- 6 cups stock or broth see veggie broth or chicken stock
- 2 cups chopped potato 2 medium
- 3 to 4 heaped cups chopped or shredded cabbage
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 0.5 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice, optional
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and tomato paste. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, fennel, black pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring for one minute.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and their juices and the stock/broth. Add the potatoes, cabbage, and bay leaves. Raise the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Partially cover the pot with a lid, then reduce the heat to maintain a low simmer.
- Simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender. Add the frozen peas and cook for five more minutes.
- Remove from heat and remove the bay leaves. Stir in the cider vinegar (or use lemon juice). Taste and season with more salt, pepper, or vinegar. Serve.
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