Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
A delightful and nourishing Quick Vegetable Soup that can be whipped up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting lunch.
This Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe is a family favorite that comes together in just 30 minutes. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, it’s not only delicious but also a great way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge. Enjoy it as a light meal or as a starter before your main course!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days
- Healthy and satisfying, packed with nutrients
The Benefits of Homemade Soup
Making your own vegetable soup at home not only ensures a fresh and flavorful dish but also allows you to control the ingredients. You can select organic vegetables, reduce sodium levels, or add your favorite herbs and spices. This flexibility makes homemade soup a healthier option compared to store-bought varieties that often contain preservatives and artificial flavors. Plus, the satisfaction of creating a comforting bowl of soup from scratch is unparalleled.
Another advantage of preparing your own vegetable soup is the ability to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a thicker consistency or a brothier soup, you can easily adjust the texture by adding more or fewer vegetables or broth. This adaptability makes it a great recipe to experiment with, ensuring that every pot of soup you create is unique and tailored to your liking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftover vegetable soup, rejoice! It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Just let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Soup can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.
When it comes to reheating your soup, the stovetop is the best method to preserve the flavors and texture. Simply pour the soup into a pot, heat over medium heat, and stir occasionally until warmed through. If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave—just be sure to heat it in short intervals and stir in between to ensure even heating.
Pairing Suggestions
Ingredients
Vegetable Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add Garlic and Other Vegetables
Stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Serve
Once the vegetables are tender, remove from heat. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your homemade Quick Vegetable Soup!
Nutritional Highlights
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The variety of vegetables used ensures a wide range of vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced diet. Carrots provide a good source of beta-carotene, which is essential for healthy vision, while zucchini and bell peppers are rich in antioxidants that support overall health.
Additionally, this soup is low in calories yet high in fiber, making it suitable for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The fiber content helps you feel full longer, reducing the likelihood of snacking between meals. Incorporating this soup into your regular meal rotation can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is delightful as is, there are numerous variations you can try to keep things exciting. For a heartier version, add cooked beans or lentils for an extra protein boost. This not only makes the soup more filling but also enhances its nutritional profile, making it a complete meal in a bowl.
If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. This will give your soup a nice kick and elevate the flavor profile. You can also play around with different herbs like basil, oregano, or even a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pot.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.
→ What can I serve with the soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
A delightful and nourishing Quick Vegetable Soup that can be whipped up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting lunch.
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetable Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Once the vegetables are tender, remove from heat. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g