Name: Easy Vegetable Soup: A Healthy Comfort Dish for Everyone
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups chopped onion (1 large); 1.5 cups chopped carrot (3 to 4 carrots); 1.5 cups chopped celery (2 to 3 stalks); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 teaspoons minced garlic (4 cloves); 0.75 teaspoon ground fennel seed; 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste); 0.125 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 15 ounces can diced tomatoes (with their liquid); 6 cups stock or broth (see our veggie broth or chicken stock); 2 cups chopped potato (2 medium); 3 to 4 heaped cups chopped or shredded cabbage; 2 each bay leaves; 1 cup frozen peas; 0.5 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or fresh lemon juice, optional)

Introduction to Easy Vegetable Soup

If you're searching for a hearty yet nourishing dish, look no further than this easy vegetable soup. Beyond its comforting flavors, homemade soup packs a nutritional punch and gives you control over the ingredients. You can incorporate your favorite veggies, making each batch a unique creation.

Why Choose Homemade Vegetable Soup?

Making your own vegetable soup allows you to embrace a fresh, wholesome approach to cooking. Store-bought options can often be high in sodium and preservatives, but with this easy recipe, you'll know exactly what goes into your meal. Plus, cooking at home means you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Craving more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes. Want to boost the nutrients? Toss in some kale or spinach.

Creating a pot of this easy vegetable soup is not just cooking; it's a chance to unwind, let your creativity shine, and savor nourishing ingredients. Did you know that vegetable soup can help you meet your daily recommended servings of veggies? It's an effortless way to enhance your diet while enjoying a warm, comforting bowl. For more kitchen inspiration, check out this guide to seasonal vegetables to make the most of what’s fresh!

Ingredients for Easy Vegetable Soup

Crafting a delicious easy vegetable soup is as simple as gathering a handful of wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this hearty dish:

Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons to sauté your veggies.
Onion: 2 cups, chopped from about 1 large onion, for a savory base.
Carrots: 1 ½ cups, diced from 3 to 4 carrots, adding natural sweetness and color.
Celery: 1 ½ cups, from 2 to 3 stalks, for that classic crunch.
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons to deepen the broth's flavor.
Garlic: 4 cloves minced, giving your soup a fragrant kick.
Fennel Seed: ¾ teaspoon for an aromatic touch.
Black Pepper and Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon each, plus more to taste.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon (optional) for some heat.
Diced Tomatoes: 1 (15 oz) can, with their juices for added richness.
Broth: 6 cups of vegetable stock or broth, making it either vegan or a comforting chicken soup.
Potatoes: 2 medium, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Cabbage: 3 to 4 cups, chopped or shredded.
Bay Leaves: 2 for infusing flavor.
Frozen Peas: 1 cup for a pop of color and sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice: ½ teaspoon, optional, to brighten up the taste.

Feel free to mix and match your veggies based on what’s in season or on hand! For more tips on creating your custom broth, check out our homemade vegetable broth recipe. Happy cooking!

Preparing Easy Vegetable Soup

Making a comforting bowl of easy vegetable soup may feel daunting, but with a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm, hearty dish in no time! This soup is perfect for meal prep, and you can customize it with seasonal veggies for a fresh twist each time. Let’s dive into the steps!

Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 2 cups of chopped onions, 1 ½ cups of chopped carrots, and 1 ½ cups of chopped celery. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for a hint of sweetness and color. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent—this should take about 8 to 10 minutes. This initial step builds a fantastic flavor foundation for your easy vegetable soup.

Add Aromatics

Now it’s time to add some depth with aromatics! Stir in 4 teaspoons of minced garlic, ¾ teaspoon of ground fennel seed, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Cook the mixture while stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Just think—your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now!

Build the Soup Base

Next, pour in one 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes with their liquids and 6 cups of your choice of stock or broth. Whether you opt for vegetable broth or chicken stock, both will enhance the overall flavor profile. Add 2 cups of chopped potatoes, 3 to 4 cups of chopped or shredded cabbage, and 2 bay leaves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, partially cover the pot and reduce the heat for a gentle simmer.

Simmer to Perfection

Allow your soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, which is just enough time for the potatoes and veggies to become tender. After that, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and give it another 5 minutes to cook. This step makes your easy vegetable soup not just pleasing to the taste buds but also vibrant in color!

Final Touches

Once everything is ready, remove the pot from the heat and fish out the bay leaves—nobody wants to bite down on those! Stir in ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Now, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. Serve your delicious creation hot, and enjoy a nutritious meal that’s both comforting and satisfying!

With these straightforward steps, you've prepared a delightful bowl of easy vegetable soup. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Variations on Easy Vegetable Soup

Seasonal Vegetable Swaps

One of the joys of making easy vegetable soup is that it’s completely customizable based on the seasons! For a refreshing spring twist, try swapping in vibrant asparagus or zucchini. In the summer, incorporate fresh corn or bell peppers for a sweet crunch. Fall brings the perfect opportunity for hearty ingredients like butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Lastly, winter favorites like root vegetables and leafy greens, such as kale or spinach, can make a warm, nourishing bowl to cozy up with.

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to elevate your soup experience? Consider adding:

Fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, for a burst of freshness.
A dash of soy sauce or miso paste for a savory umami kick.
Protein such as chickpeas or turkey bacon to make your soup more filling.
A splash of coconut milk for creamy richness or a hint of lemon juice for a zesty finish.

Experiment with these ideas, and you'll discover how versatile and flavorful your easy vegetable soup can be!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Vegetable Soup

When making your easy vegetable soup, keep in mind the importance of seasoning early. This allows the flavors to blossom and mingle beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. Don't hesitate to experiment with seasonal vegetables—it’s a fun way to personalize your soup! For added depth, consider using homemade vegetable broth, which you can easily whip up with scraps or leftovers.

While simmering, resist the urge to rush it; low and slow is key to enhancing the flavors. Lastly, if you like a bit of tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice right before serving. Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for Easy Vegetable Soup

Pairing with bread and sides

Serving your easy vegetable soup with warm bread can elevate the meal to new heights. A crusty baguette or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for dipping. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh garden salad for a light yet fulfilling experience. Don’t forget to explore some delicious homemade garlic bread recipes to complement the flavors.

Creative serving ideas

Get imaginative with your presentation! Serve the easy vegetable soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch. Top each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant look. For a twist, try adding a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to enhance flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or drizzle of olive oil right before serving can also make a delightful difference.

Time breakdown for Easy Vegetable Soup

Preparation time

Getting ready for your easy vegetable soup is a breeze! You'll just need about 10 minutes to chop the vegetables and gather your ingredients. It’s the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner chef!

Cooking time

The cooking process takes approximately 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens! Your kitchen will soon be filled with heartwarming aromas as the vegetables simmer together.

Total time

In just 40 minutes, you'll have a delicious, homemade vegetable soup ready to enjoy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends! This soup is not only quick to prepare but also adaptable to your taste. Want to explore other flavor profiles? Check out variations on seasonal vegetables or additional herbs.

Nutritional Facts for Easy Vegetable Soup

When you're looking for a tasty and nutritious meal, this easy vegetable soup fits the bill!

Calories

Each serving of this delicious soup comes in at just 137 calories, making it a great option for a light lunch or dinner.

Fiber

Not only is this soup low in calories, but it also packs 4.9 grams of fiber per serving. That’s nearly 20% of your daily fiber intake, which can help keep your digestion on track.

Protein

Although it's veggie-packed, this easy vegetable soup offers a respectable 3.2 grams of protein per serving. It’s perfect for aiding muscle recovery, especially after workouts or long days.

With these nutritional benefits, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup without any guilt. Plus, the versatility means you can tailor it to your taste! Want to ensure you get the most out of your veggies? Consider reading about the health benefits of each vegetable you choose to include, like this Nutritional Guidelines resource for insights.

FAQs about Easy Vegetable Soup

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! To ensure your easy vegetable soup is gluten-free, simply use gluten-free vegetable broth and verify that all canned ingredients are labeled gluten-free. This soup is versatile, so feel free to customize the recipe with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice instead of potatoes.

How do I store leftover soup?

Leftover easy vegetable soup is a great way to minimize waste. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you're like me and love meal prepping, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy grab-and-go lunches!

What’s the best way to freeze vegetable soup?

Freezing is a fantastic option for this soup! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can stay tasty in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave. For more freezing tips, check out this resource.

Conclusion on Easy Vegetable Soup

In conclusion, this easy vegetable soup is a delightful way to embrace healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. With minimal prep and cooking time, it's perfect for busy weekdays. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies, ensuring every bowl is uniquely yours. Enjoy heartwarming meals and good health!