Name: Easy Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (diced); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 large carrots (chopped); 2 large celery stalks (thinly sliced); 8 cups chicken broth ((use veg broth for Vegetarian)); 1 14.5 ounce canned tomatoes (with juice); 2 medium zucchini (chopped); 1.5 cups chopped fresh green beans; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 0.5 cup chopped fresh basil; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of Easy Vegetable Soup, especially on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a last-minute decision after a long day at work. I was craving something hearty yet wholesome, and the idea of bringing a medley of fresh vegetables together sounded just right. As I chopped the vibrant carrots, zucchini, and potatoes, I felt a wave of warmth and nostalgia wash over me. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those evenings when you need a little extra comfort. It reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone shares stories over steaming bowls of goodness. Making this soup allows me to bring that feeling back into my kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
3 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Large Pot, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board

Why We Love This Easy Vegetable Soup

A Burst of Freshness

The beauty of Easy Vegetable Soup lies in its ability to showcase fresh ingredients. Each vegetable sings with flavor, offering a deliciously vibrant experience in every spoonful. Using fresh produce not only enhances the taste but also ensures you’re getting the best nutrients.

Versatility at Its Best

This soup is incredibly versatile. You can swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Whether it’s spinach in the spring or pumpkin in the fall, the base recipe is forgiving and adaptable. It’s like a canvas for your creativity!

Nutritious and Wholesome

With the combination of veggies and chicken broth, this soup packs a nutritious punch. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies, especially for picky eaters!

Simple to Prepare

Even if you’re rushed for time, this Easy Vegetable Soup doesn’t require much. Just chop, simmer, and enjoy. It’s a fantastic recipe for beginners or anyone looking for a quick dinner option. You’ll be surprised at how simple it is to whip up!

A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, a quick lunch, or even as a starter for a larger feast. It creates a heartwarming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with fresh bread!

Leftovers Make for Great Lunches

One of the best parts about this soup is that it stores beautifully. Make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious leftovers for lunch the next day. It keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Ingredient List for Easy Vegetable Soup

The ingredients in Easy Vegetable Soup come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures that are simply delightful. Each ingredient plays a vital role, bringing something unique to the mix.

2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced – These potatoes add a creamy texture that helps to thicken the soup and make it heartier.
1 medium onion, chopped – Onions provide a savory depth that forms the aromatic base of the soup.
2 large carrots, chopped – Sweet and colorful, carrots bring a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness.
2 large celery stalks, thinly sliced – Celery adds a fresh, crisp element to the soup.
8 cups chicken broth (use veg broth for Vegetarian) – This forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup.
One 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, with juice – Tomatoes add acidity and a rich flavor to the mix.
2 medium zucchini, chopped – Zucchini is incredibly versatile, adding volume and mild flavor.
1½ cups chopped fresh green beans – These provide a pop of color and texture.
1 cup frozen peas – Sweet and tender, peas add a lovely burst of flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds an earthy depth to the soup.
½ teaspoon salt – Just enough to enhance all the natural flavors.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – A hint of spice that elevates the overall taste.
½ cup chopped fresh basil – Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note that brightens the soup.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – This finishing touch adds creaminess and umami flavor, making each bowl a little more indulgent.

How to Assemble Easy Vegetable Soup

Making Easy Vegetable Soup is not only simple but also a labor of love. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious soup in no time!

In a large soup pot, combine the potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and the chicken broth. Heat it over medium-high heat until the mixture starts to boil. Keep an eye on it, as boiling can create quite a mess if left unattended. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and simmer the soup for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the potatoes become tender without turning mushy. You want them tender enough to enjoy but firm enough to hold their shape.
After the initial simmer, add in the tomatoes, zucchini, green beans, peas, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This colorful mix will make your soup not just tasty but visually appealing as well.
Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. As the soup cooks, you’ll see the vegetables soften, releasing their natural sweetness.
Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from heat. This is a good time to taste your soup! You might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper based on your preference.
To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a tablespoon of fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly, adding richness to the soup. It’s a delightful finishing touch that elevates each bowl.
Enjoy your Easy Vegetable Soup warm, preferably with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad on the side. This soup is perfect for sharing with family and friends, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Things Worth Knowing

Flavor depth: Don’t skip the onions! They create a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Cooking time: Simmering longer allows the flavors to develop, so don’t rush this step.
Fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs at the end retains their vibrant flavor and aroma.
Texture variety: Consider varying the cut size of the vegetables for a more dynamic texture in each bite.

Making Adjustments

If you want to tweak your Easy Vegetable Soup, here are some helpful tips to consider:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before storing.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a light salad to balance the flavors of the soup.
Spicing it up: If you like some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Vegetable variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables for added variety!

Great Combinations for Easy Vegetable Soup

When it comes to enjoying your Easy Vegetable Soup, there are countless ways to serve it up. Here are some great combinations:

Crusty bread: A warm slice of crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup, ideal for dipping!
Fresh salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to add a crunchy contrast.
Cheese toast: A slice of cheese toast topped with Parmesan or your favorite cheese makes for a satisfying addition.
Cold nights: This soup is a go-to for cozy winter nights or chilly evenings.
Meal prep: This is an excellent option for meal prep, creating quick lunches for the week.

FAQ

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of Easy Vegetable Soup. You can also add more vegetables or even some beans for added protein. This soup is very adaptable, allowing you to create a meal that suits your dietary preferences.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to three months!

You can customize this soup with a variety of vegetables! Feel free to add spinach, kale, bell peppers, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially if you add denser vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.

Yes, Easy Vegetable Soup is a fantastic make-ahead option! The flavors often improve after sitting for a day, as they meld together beautifully. You can prepare the soup a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may become softer after storing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Easy Vegetable Soup is a special dish that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Its blend of fresh ingredients not only nourishes the body but also the soul. I encourage you to try making this soup at home, as it’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to create moments of joy around the dinner table. So gather your fresh veggies, and let’s get cooking!