Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for a healthy meal any day of the week.
This Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a comforting broth.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables
- A comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out
The Benefits of Fresh Vegetables
Incorporating fresh vegetables into your diet can significantly improve your health. They are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, which help boost your immune system, enhance your skin's appearance, and support overall well-being. The vibrant colors in this Quick Vegetable Soup not only make it visually appealing but also indicate a variety of nutrients that your body craves.
Moreover, fresh vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight. The fiber content aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, reducing the chances of unhealthy snacking. This soup is a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of veggies without even realizing it!
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Quick Vegetable Soup is an excellent meal prep option for busy individuals or families. You can prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Just reheat it for a quick and nutritious meal that saves you time and effort during hectic weekdays.
In addition, this soup can be easily customized to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. This flexibility not only prevents food waste but also allows you to cater to your family’s preferences, ensuring that everyone enjoys a hearty bowl of goodness.
Serving Suggestions
While this Quick Vegetable Soup is delicious on its own, there are several ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a refreshing green salad on the side. These accompaniments not only enhance the meal but also provide additional nutrients and flavors that complement the soup beautifully.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated cheese or fresh herbs over the top just before serving. This adds a delightful creaminess or a burst of freshness that takes the soup to the next level. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will make your vegetable soup truly memorable.
Ingredients
Gather all the fresh ingredients before you start cooking.
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup chopped spinach
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure all vegetables are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add Garlic and Zucchini
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped zucchini. Continue to sauté for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in Broth and Seasonings
Add the vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Finish with Spinach
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot and enjoy your nourishing soup!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover soup, storing it properly is key to maintaining its flavor and freshness. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning it out in single-serving containers for quick meals later on.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened during storage, you may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutritional Information
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, thanks to the variety of vegetables. The inclusion of spinach provides a healthy dose of iron and calcium, while the garlic adds antioxidant properties that can help boost your immune system.
Furthermore, this soup is naturally low in fat and calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to eat healthier or manage their weight. With so many benefits in one bowl, it's a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your hunger and keeps you nourished.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pot.
→ How long can I store the soup?
You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.
→ Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add beans, lentils, or even cooked chicken for added protein.
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
This Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for a healthy meal any day of the week.
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup chopped spinach
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic and chopped zucchini. Continue to sauté for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 5g