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Vegetable Soup

Vegetable Soup
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A comforting and nourishing vegetable soup that blends fresh, vibrant vegetables with a rich, savory broth. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this versatile and healthy soup is perfect for cozy meals, meal prep, and adding more veggies to your diet.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Vegetables

  • 2 large carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped

Leafy Greens

  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale

Garlic and Herbs

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or alternative fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or dill)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Broth

  • 6 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)

Oil and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup cooked white beans or barley for added protein and texture

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop all fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture throughout the soup.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
  3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the chopped carrots, tomatoes, and any other chosen vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth until the vegetables are fully submerged, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer and Season: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, fresh thyme, parsley, and red pepper flakes if using, adjusting to taste.
  5. Finish with Greens and Optional Add-ins: Add the spinach or kale to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted. If using, stir in the cooked white beans or barley and heat through.

Notes

  • Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
  • Do not overcook the vegetables to maintain texture and avoid mushiness.
  • Layer flavors by sautéing aromatics first and adding herbs towards the end for a vibrant taste.
  • Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding water or broth if it’s too thick, or simmer longer if it’s too thin.
  • Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for brightness.
  • For a thicker soup, add cooked potatoes, beans, or puree part of the soup.
  • This soup can be prepared in a slow cooker by sautéing aromatics first, then cooking all ingredients on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Garnish with grated Parmesan, pesto, or Greek yogurt and serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on the stove or microwave in short bursts to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegetable soup, healthy soup, vegan soup, gluten free soup, comforting meal, easy vegetable soup, meal prep soup

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/vegetable-soup/