Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Quick Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that can be prepared in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables and can be customized to your taste.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with fresh vegetables for a wholesome meal
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weekdays
- Versatile recipe that can be adapted with your favorite ingredients
The Benefits of Homemade Soup
Making soup at home is not just a delicious endeavor; it's also incredibly beneficial for your health and wellbeing. Homemade vegetable soup allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you use fresh, high-quality vegetables packed with nutrients. This means you can avoid preservatives and artificial additives often found in store-bought soups. The result is a wholesome dish that supports your immune system and contributes to overall health.
Additionally, preparing soup at home can foster a sense of comfort and warmth. The process of cooking can be therapeutic, helping to relieve stress after a long day. As the aromas of sautéing vegetables fill your kitchen, it creates a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about sharing a homemade meal, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Customizing Your Vegetable Soup
One of the best aspects of this Quick Vegetable Soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a fresh twist.
If you're looking to boost the protein content, adding beans or lentils can make this soup even more satisfying. Quinoa or small pasta shapes are also great additions, turning it into a hearty meal. The flexibility of this recipe makes it a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge, reducing waste while creating a delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Quick Vegetable Soup, a few simple accompaniments can elevate the meal. Consider pairing the soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded dining experience. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream can add extra richness and depth of flavor, making each bowl even more enjoyable.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a delightful contrast to the soup's natural sweetness. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. These finishing touches not only enhance the presentation but also enrich the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious vegetable soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup frozen peas
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for a swift cooking experience!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your vegetable soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Peppers
Stir in the bell pepper and garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in Broth and Tomatoes
Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Finish with Greens
Stir in the fresh spinach and frozen peas. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the greens are wilted and peas are heated through.
Your delicious vegetable soup is ready to be served!
Storage Tips
Storing your Quick Vegetable Soup is easy and convenient, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, providing a quick and healthy option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each serving is rich in vitamins and minerals, primarily from the variety of fresh vegetables included. The carrots, bell peppers, and spinach provide a healthy dose of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining good vision and a strong immune system.
Additionally, the fiber content from the vegetables and peas promotes digestive health and helps you feel full longer. This soup can be a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet or lose weight, as it is low in calories yet high in volume, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can be used in place of fresh.
→ How long can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as long as you use vegetable broth.
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
This Quick Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that can be prepared in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Created by: Lydia Barrett
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup frozen peas
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the bell pepper and garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the fresh spinach and frozen peas. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the greens are wilted and peas are heated through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 5g