Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This French Market Soup recipe is the perfect quick dinner idea, bursting with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend lunch. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni work well)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
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Add the liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer with potatoes and green beans: Add the potatoes and green beans to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Cook the pasta: Stir in the pasta and continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This is your chance to personalize the seasoning to your preferences.
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Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. A crusty bread on the side makes the perfect accompaniment to this hearty and flavorful soup.
Cooking Tips for the Best French Market Soup:
- Fresh is best: Using fresh herbs and vegetables will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your taste.
- Make it your own: Add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to customize your soup.
Variations:
- Creamy French Market Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
- Hearty French Market Soup: Add cooked sausage, chicken, or beans for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian/Vegan French Market Soup: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based to maintain a vegetarian or vegan option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 7-10g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This French Market Soup is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make soup recipe! It's a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. It’s so versatile, you'll find yourself making it again and again.