This Zucchini and Vegetable Soup is a hearty, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy fresh vegetables in a cozy, comforting dish. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The best part? It’s simple to make and easily customizable with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
For the Soup:
- 2 medium zucchinis, chopped into cubes
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup sweet corn
- 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for added heartiness
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
2. Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the zucchinis, potato, green beans, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3–5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Season and Simmer
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add thyme, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Optional Add-Ins
- If using peas, corn, or cooked pasta/rice, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.
5. Blend (Optional)
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of vegetables for texture.
6. Taste and Adjust
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option).
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini and Vegetable Soup
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables: The fresher the veggies, the better the flavor.
- Make it your own: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it out for quick and healthy meals.
- Add protein: Stir in some chickpeas, white beans, or shredded chicken for a protein boost.
Why You’ll Love It
This Zucchini and Vegetable Soup is:
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep work.
- Comforting: Perfect for cold days or when you need a light, satisfying meal.
Enjoy this wholesome soup that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a warm dinner, this zucchini and vegetable soup will hit the spot! 🥣✨