Are you craving a light, flavorful, and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This clear vegetable soup recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It's packed with fresh vegetables, boasts a vibrant broth, and is surprisingly simple to whip up, even for beginner cooks. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to heavier, cream-based soups, making it a fantastic option for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of goodness!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds a flavorful base for your delicious soup.
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Add garlic and herbs: Add the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Combine broth and vegetables: Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the green beans, zucchini, tomatoes, and potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer until vegetables are tender: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Clear Vegetable Soup:
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen vegetables, add them during the last 5-7 minutes of simmering to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, lentils, or chickpeas.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier soup.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or peas.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of cream before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on vegetables and added ingredients)
- Fat: Around 5-7 grams
- Protein: Around 5-7 grams
- Fiber: Around 5-7 grams
This clear vegetable soup is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic recipe for quick dinner ideas and showcases the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy this versatile and satisfying dish!