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Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body, look no further than this healing vegetable soup. Packed with a variety of vibrant vegetables and nutrient-dense ingredients, this soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s as gentle on your stomach as it is delicious. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply craving something light and healthy, this vegetable soup is the perfect choice. It’s a go-to recipe that can be eaten day and night, offering a blend of essential vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling your best.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, cut into small pieces
1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
6 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter version)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for extra zest)
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables: Start by prepping all your vegetables. Wash, peel, and chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
Add the Harder Vegetables: Toss in the carrots, celery, and potato, sautéing them for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to enhance their flavors before adding the broth.
Add the Rest of the Veggies and Broth: Add the zucchini, green beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water if you're opting for a lighter version). Stir in the dried thyme, basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. If you're adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Finish with Lemon (Optional): For an added zing, stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: This soup is delicious on its own or served with a side of whole-grain bread for a complete meal. It can also be paired with a light protein like grilled chicken or tofu if you prefer.
Storage: This vegetable soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate once it has cooled. If you want to store it for longer, freeze the soup for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to bring back its original texture and flavor if it has thickened up too much in the fridge.
Variations:
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