Vegetable Soup Recipe: A Wholesome Bowl of Comfort

Looking for a nutritious and flavorful dish to warm you up? This Vegetable Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a meal-prep favorite, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

Dish Type	Main or Starter
Serving Size	6-8 servings
Difficulty	Easy
Cooking Time	40 minutes
Preparation Time	15 minutes
Calories	Approximately 120 kcal per serving

Ingredients for Vegetable Soup

Main Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
1 cup frozen peas
4 medium tomatoes, peeled and diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
6 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cooked beans (kidney beans or cannellini beans)
2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Croutons

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Peas and Beans

Stir in the cooked beans and frozen peas. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley, Parmesan, or croutons if desired.

How to Serve Vegetable Soup

This Vegetable Soup is best served hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. It also pairs beautifully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips and Tricks

Ingredient Notes:

Vegetables: Use whatever fresh or frozen vegetables you have on hand. Options like spinach, kale, or bell peppers make excellent additions.
Beans: Any type of cooked beans will work, such as black beans, chickpeas, or navy beans.
Broth: A good-quality vegetable broth enhances the flavor significantly. For a richer taste, add a splash of tomato paste.

Cooking Tips:

To thicken the soup, blend a small portion of it and stir it back into the pot.
Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a hint of heat.

How This Recipe Fits Different Diets

Low-FODMAP: Replace onions and garlic with garlic-infused oil and omit high-FODMAP vegetables like peas and beans.
Mediterranean Diet: This recipe aligns perfectly with its use of fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs.
Vegan: It’s entirely plant-based, making it a delicious vegan-friendly choice.
Keto Diet: Swap carrots and peas for lower-carb vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including broth, are certified gluten-free.

Remarks on the Recipe

The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices makes this soup a delightful and healthy option for any meal.
Adjust the consistency to your liking—keep it brothy or make it heartier by blending part of the soup.
This recipe is highly customizable, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings.

Key Takeaways

Vegetable Soup is a nutritious and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare.
Packed with fiber and vitamins, it’s perfect for those seeking a wholesome meal.
Versatile and adaptable to various dietary needs, this recipe is a must-have in your repertoire.