Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

This simple Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup is the perfect cozy recipe for a cool day. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutritious vegetables. Ideal for family dinners or a comforting lunch, this soup offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it a standout dish that warms both body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this soup is perfect for beginner cooks and busy schedules.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables and beans, it’s a wholesome option that supports healthy eating.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning and garlic provides rich flavor, but you can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep or enjoying later.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the chunky texture and fun pasta shapes, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing room for stirring without spills.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables faster and safer.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 3-4 large carrots
• 3 celery stalks
• 1 onion
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ T Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp parsley
• 8 cup vegetable broth or stock
• 2 cans kidney beans (approx. 15 oz.)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (approx. 14.5 oz.) (do not drain the juices)
• 1 bay leaf
• ⅓ cup tomato paste
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1 ⅓ cup short pasta (uncooked)

How to Make Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by chopping your carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

In a large soup pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped veggies:
* Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Step 3: Build Your Soup Base

Next, add in minced garlic along with:
* Vegetable broth
* Kidney beans
* Diced tomatoes (with juices)
* Italian seasoning
* Parsley
* Bay leaf
* Tomato paste

Mix everything well. If you prefer a thicker broth, consider using up to ½ cup of tomato paste.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Cook on medium heat for about:
1. 30 minutes or until carrots and celery are tender.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Spinach

Afterward, add in:
* Baby spinach
* Uncooked pasta

Continue heating at a soft boil for another:
1. 15 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Chill any leftovers in a sealed container for up to five days or freeze them for about six weeks.

Enjoy your homemade Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup!

How to Serve Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting soup to enhance your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of toasted crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness that complements the soup’s rich flavors.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Garnish each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese. This adds a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the vegetables.

As a First Course

• Serve the soup as an appetizer before a main meal. It’s perfect to whet the appetite and prepare guests for the main dish.

Alongside a Salad

• Pair it with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, to create a balanced meal that includes fresh veggies.

How to Perfect Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

To ensure your Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup reaches its full potential, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant and tasty.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preference for maximum flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy in the broth.
• Store Properly: Allow leftovers to cool before storing them in airtight containers. This preserves flavor and texture for future meals.
• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken or turkey for added protein if desired, making the soup even heartier.

Best Side Dishes for Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

Serving side dishes alongside your Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing, garlic bread’s buttery goodness complements the soup perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad provides crunch and tanginess, balancing the warmth of the soup.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer refreshing flavors that contrast well with the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add extra nutrients and flavor while enhancing your overall meal presentation.

5. Cheese Quesadilla
   A cheesy quesadilla sliced into wedges makes for a fun finger food option that’s easy to enjoy alongside soup.

6. Pesto Pasta
   Lightly dressed pesto pasta can be served cold or warm for an added Italian touch that pairs beautifully with vegetable soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables first enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step; it makes a big difference in taste.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Use a good quality vegetable broth for the best flavor, as it greatly impacts the overall taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add pasta too early, it can become mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep it al dente.
• Not adjusting seasonings: Tastes vary, so always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Ignoring leftover storage: Properly store leftovers to maintain freshness. Use airtight containers for refrigeration or freezing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 weeks.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 20-30 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup:

What vegetables work best in Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup?

You can use a variety of vegetables like zucchini, green beans, and bell peppers along with carrots and celery for added texture and flavor.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply ensure all ingredients, including broth and any added toppings, are plant-based for a delicious vegan version.

How do I customize my Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup?

Feel free to add different beans or grains like quinoa or barley. You can also adjust spices based on your flavor preferences!

Is Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup healthy?

Absolutely! Packed with vegetables and beans, it’s high in fiber and nutrients while being low in calories.

Final Thoughts

Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or add proteins like chicken or turkey. This recipe invites creativity while providing warmth on a chilly day. Try it out and enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness!

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

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Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or cozy family dinners. This hearty soup is brimming with fresh vegetables, nutritious beans, and flavorful herbs that warm the soul and delight the taste buds. Easy to prepare and customizable to your preferences, it’s a delightful option for meal prep or a satisfying lunch. Made without any animal-derived ingredients, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 large carrots
• 3 celery stalks
• 1 onion
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ T Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp parsley
• 8 cup vegetable broth or stock
• 2 cans kidney beans (approx. 15 oz.)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (approx. 14.5 oz.) (do not drain the juices)
• 1 bay leaf
• ⅓ cup tomato paste
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1 ⅓ cup short pasta (uncooked)

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Instructions

1. Chop carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped vegetables until onions are translucent.
3. Add minced garlic, vegetable broth, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), Italian seasoning, parsley, bay leaf, and tomato paste. Stir well.
4. Simmer on medium heat for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in baby spinach and uncooked pasta; cook for an additional 15 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 0mg