This vegetable soup is a delightful blend of fresh, healthy ingredients, making it perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. With its rich broth and vibrant vegetables, this vegetable soup not only warms you up but also nourishes you with every spoonful. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with colorful veggies, this soup is low in calories yet high in vitamins.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Delicious: Infused with herbs and spices, each bowl bursts with flavor that delights the palate.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Cooking this vegetable soup requires just a few essential tools to help you create a delicious meal. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium-large soup pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Garlic press
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium-large soup pot: This is crucial for cooking all the ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for simmering.
- Garlic press: A garlic press ensures you get the maximum flavor from your garlic without tedious chopping.
Ingredients
This hot and comforting vegetable soup is coziness in a bowl, brimming with healthy, vibrant veggies in a rich broth infused with herbs!
Ingredients:
– 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 through garlic press
– 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: Gather 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 the Vegetables
Place a medium-large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add in the ghee or butter along with the olive oil. Once melted together, add in the leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, and diced potatoes. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Cook these together for about 3–4 minutes until they start to become slightly translucent.
Step 3: Add Herbs
Add the Italian seasoning and dried parsley along with the pressed garlic. Stir these ingredients in to incorporate them well into the vegetable mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth
Add the drained tomatoes followed by the vegetable (or chicken) stock. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat so that the soup is gently simmering. Cover it up and allow it to cook for about 15 minutes or until all vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite.
Step 5: Final Touches
Turn off the heat once done cooking. Stir in the peas, chopped kale, chopped parsley, and a small squeeze of lemon juice. Taste your soup to see if any additional salt or pepper is needed before serving.
Enjoy your homemade vegetable soup, an inviting dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
How to Serve Vegetable Soup
Serving vegetable soup can be a delightful experience. This comforting dish is versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked sourdough or whole grain bread will soak up the delicious broth, making every bite satisfying.
Add a Dollop of Pesto
- A spoonful of pesto on top adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful pop of color, elevating the entire dish.
Serve with Grated Cheese
- Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese for a creamy texture and salty kick that complements the veggies well.
Accompany with a Side Salad
- A crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Topping your soup with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil brightens the flavors and adds elegance to your bowl.
Include a Splash of Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy heat, a few drops of hot sauce can add an exciting zing to each spoonful.
How to Perfect Vegetable Soup
Creating the perfect vegetable soup requires attention to detail and some simple techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance flavor but also provide better nutrition and texture.
Balance Flavors: Taste as you cook, adjusting salt, pepper, and acidity (like lemon juice) for a well-rounded taste.
Cut Uniformly: Cut vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking, allowing all ingredients to blend harmoniously.
Experiment with Broths: Try using homemade vegetable stock or chicken broth for richer flavor options in your soup base.
Add Protein: Incorporate beans or lentils for added protein, making the soup heartier and more satisfying.
Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer brings out deeper flavors. Just be careful not to overcook the veggies!
Best Side Dishes for Vegetable Soup
Pairing side dishes with vegetable soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread: The crispy garlic bread complements the soup’s warmth while adding robust flavor.
Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches provide gooey richness that pairs beautifully with the broth.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers make for a filling side that matches well with any vegetable medley.
Roasted Veggies: A platter of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the freshness of your soup while adding variety.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon brings brightness alongside the rich soup.
Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with olives, cheeses, and cured meats offers a savory complement that balances flavors.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with spices can serve as a hearty addition to your meal.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer crunch and comfort, rounding out your dining experience perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making vegetable soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting to sauté onions or garlic first can lead to bland soup. Always start with these ingredients to build flavor.
- Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long makes them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by checking doneness during cooking.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your broth can make your soup taste flat. Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go.
- Not using fresh herbs: Relying solely on dried herbs may limit flavor. Try adding fresh herbs at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Using low-quality broth: A mediocre broth results in dull soup. Choose a high-quality vegetable or chicken broth for better flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store vegetable soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegetable Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Vegetable Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe pot until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making vegetable soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries answered.
What vegetables are best for vegetable soup?
You can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, celery, potatoes, and leafy greens like kale or spinach. Experiment with seasonal produce for best results.
Can I customize my vegetable soup recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like beans or lentils for extra nutrients. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste.
How do I thicken my vegetable soup?
To thicken your soup, you can puree a portion of it using a blender. Alternatively, add cornstarch mixed with water or include more starchy vegetables like potatoes.
Can I make this vegetable soup ahead of time?
Yes! This vegetable soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This comforting vegetable soup is perfect for any occasion, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. Its versatility allows for endless customization options—add your favorite veggies or spices! Don’t hesitate; try this delightful recipe today!
Vegetable Soup
Indulge in a warm bowl of Vegetable Soup, a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich broth. This comforting dish is not only nourishing but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. Each spoonful bursts with flavor, thanks to the infusion of herbs and spices that elevate this wholesome recipe. Whether enjoyed as a starter or main course, this vegetable soup is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 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 through garlic press
- 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
Instructions
- Gather and prep all ingredients.
- In a medium-large soup pot over medium-high heat, melt ghee/butter with olive oil. Add leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, and potatoes. Season lightly with salt and pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and pressed garlic.
- Incorporate drained tomatoes and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes until veggies are tender yet crisp.
- Stir in peas, kale, parsley, and lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
