Vegetable soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with a variety of vegetables and flavored with fresh herbs, this hearty soup is easy to make and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a wholesome dinner, this vegetable soup is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (Parsley, Basil), chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water (more if needed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop and Dice:
- Peel and dice the potatoes.
- Peel and slice the carrot.
- Dice the bell pepper.
- Chop the cabbage.
- Chop the onion.
- Slice the celery stalks.
- Mince the garlic, if using.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Oil:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrot, diced bell pepper, chopped cabbage, and sliced celery to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Add Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water, enough to cover the vegetables. If using, add the can of diced tomatoes.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
- Season:
- Add salt to taste and any additional seasoning you like.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
- Stir in Herbs:
- Add the chopped fresh parsley and basil to the soup. Stir to combine and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting and nutritious soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as zucchini, green beans, or peas.
- Broth: Using vegetable broth adds more flavor, but water can be used if you prefer.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs add a bright flavor to the soup, but dried herbs can also be used if fresh are not available.
Variations
Spicy Vegetable Soup
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Creamy Vegetable Soup
- Add Cream:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy version of this soup.
Lentil Vegetable Soup
- Add Lentils:
- Add 1 cup of dried lentils to the soup for added protein and heartiness. Increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes to ensure the lentils are fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Bread:
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
- With Salad:
- Pair with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
Beverages
- With Tea:
- Enjoy with a cup of hot tea or herbal tea for a cozy combination.
- With Juice:
- Serve with a glass of fresh juice for a refreshing accompaniment.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, vegetable soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables? A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Adjust the cooking time as needed since frozen vegetables may cook faster than fresh ones.
Q: Can I add meat to this soup? A: Yes, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or sausage to the soup for added protein.
Q: How do I make this soup vegan? A: This soup is already vegan if you use vegetable broth. Just ensure any added ingredients, such as bread or toppings, are also vegan.
Vegetable soup is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its nutritious ingredients and rich flavors, this hearty soup is sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this vegetable soup is always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious soup with your family and friends!
