How to make Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe 🥣🥕




Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients, this Hearty Vegetable Soup is the perfect one-pot meal. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a way to use up leftover veggies, this versatile recipe is sure to hit the spot. It’s easy to make, customizable, and brimming with rich flavors.


Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced

For the Vegetables:

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

For the Broth:

  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for added heartiness
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or kale

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
  • Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Add the Broth and Potatoes

  1. Stir in the potatoes and vegetable broth.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin softening.

3. Add Remaining Vegetables

  1. Stir in the zucchini, green beans, peas, and diced tomatoes.
  2. Add thyme, basil, smoked paprika, and chili flakes if using.
  3. Simmer for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

4. Adjust Seasoning

  1. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. If adding pasta, rice, or quinoa, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through.

5. Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  3. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup

  1. Use Seasonal Vegetables:
    The fresher the veggies, the better the flavor. Swap ingredients based on what’s in season or available.

  2. Make It Creamy:
    Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture without adding dairy.

  3. Store for Later:
    This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months and reheat on the stove or microwave.

  4. Protein Boost:
    Add chickpeas, lentils, or shredded chicken to make the soup more filling.


Why You’ll Love It

This Hearty Vegetable Soup is:

  • Nourishing: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from a variety of vegetables.
  • Versatile: Easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or what you have in the fridge.
  • Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and minimal cleanup make it perfect for busy days.
  • Deliciously Comforting: A warm bowl of this soup feels like a hug on a cold day.