Vegetable Soup

This comforting vegetable soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or a wholesome lunch. Overflowing with vibrant veggies and infused with aromatic herbs, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to whip up. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to cozy gatherings with friends. Experience the unique blend of flavors that make this vegetable soup a standout dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with wholesome vegetables, it’s a great way to get your daily vitamins.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.
• Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later on.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the colorful, flavorful ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Garlic press

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly and providing ample space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface helps you chop vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Garlic press: Easily minces garlic cloves, enhancing the flavor without extra effort.

Ingredients

This hot and comforting vegetable soup is coziness in a bowl, brimming with healthy, vibrant veggies in a rich broth infused with herbs!

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
• 2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced small
• 3 parsnips, peeled and diced small
• 3 celery ribs, diced small
• 2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small
• Salt
• Black pepper

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press

For the Soup

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained and seeded, finely diced
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 cup peas
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Small squeeze of lemon

How to Make Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Place a medium-large soup pot over medium-high heat, adding in the ghee or butter along with the oil. Once melted together:
1. Add in the leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, and diced potatoes.
2. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook together for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to become slightly translucent.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Add the Italian seasoning and dried parsley along with the pressed garlic:
1. Stir these ingredients in well to incorporate their flavors.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth

Next:
1. Add in the finely diced tomatoes.
2. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock.
3. Bring everything to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat so that the soup gently simmers.
5. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender yet maintain a slight bite.

Step 5: Final Touches

Turn off the heat:
1. Stir in the peas, chopped kale, fresh parsley, and add a small squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Taste the soup; adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed before serving.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of vegetable soup!

How to Serve Vegetable Soup

Serving vegetable soup is a delightful experience, allowing you to customize each bowl to suit your taste. Here are some creative ways to make your vegetable soup even more enjoyable.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a fragrant touch.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Include Grains

• Quinoa: Stir in cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
• Barley: Add cooked barley to enhance the heartiness of the soup.

Top with Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can make this soup more filling.
• Tofu Crumbles: For a plant-based option, sprinkle crispy tofu crumbles on top.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Pair the soup with slices of crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Vegetable Soup

Perfecting vegetable soup involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Base: Start with sautéed onions, garlic, or leeks to build a flavorful foundation.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you cook; it’s easier to adjust seasoning in stages than all at once.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: Choose vibrant, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Incorporate Acid: A splash of vinegar or squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Vegetable Soup

Pairing side dishes with vegetable soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds gooey goodness alongside your soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips offer texture and make for delightful dipping.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies can be a great way to use up leftovers while adding depth.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with grains or legumes create an interesting side option.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory flavors of the soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Vegetable Soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient preparation: Not prepping your ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven cooking and a less organized cooking process. Always chop and measure everything before starting.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many vegetables at once may cause them to steam instead of sauté, which affects flavor and texture. Cook in batches if your pot is small.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your soup can result in bland flavors. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
• Skipping the simmering step: Not allowing the soup to simmer can mean tough vegetables. Let it cook gently for the full time for a tender bite.
• Not using quality broth: A low-quality broth can ruin the soup’s flavor. Use homemade or high-quality vegetable or chicken broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Vegetable Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegetable Soup:

Can I customize my Vegetable Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add any seasonal veggies you have on hand or substitute with your favorites for a personal touch.

How long does Vegetable Soup last?

When stored properly, it lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth and skip any animal-derived products like ghee or butter.

What vegetables work well in this Vegetable Soup?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans based on your preference and seasonality.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also offers flexibility with ingredients. You can easily customize it based on what you have available. Enjoy its warmth and comfort any time of year!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Vegetable Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up your evenings with this nourishing Vegetable Soup, a delightful medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a rich broth. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly nights or a wholesome lunch, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful veggies and infused with aromatic herbs, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, each bowl serves as a warm embrace, providing satisfaction and nourishment.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
• 2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced small
• 3 parsnips, peeled and diced small
• 3 celery ribs, diced small
• 2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained and seeded, finely diced
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 cup peas
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Small squeeze of lemon

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Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients by chopping and measuring according to the list above.
2. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, combine olive oil and ghee/butter until melted. Add leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, and diced potatoes; season with salt and black pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly translucent.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and pressed garlic.
4. Add diced tomatoes and pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to let it simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in peas, kale, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 155
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg