Tired of complicated recipes and endless chopping? Craving a healthy, delicious meal that's ready in minutes? Then this frozen vegetable soup recipe is your answer! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, utilizing readily available frozen vegetables to create a vibrant and flavorful soup packed with nutrients. It's a fantastic example of how quick dinner ideas can also be incredibly healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped (or 1 cup frozen chopped carrots)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (or 1 cup frozen chopped celery)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, green beans, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked lentils or quinoa for added protein
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. If using fresh vegetables, this step is crucial for developing flavor. Frozen vegetables can be added directly in the next step.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step elevates the entire soup's flavor profile.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Incorporate Frozen Vegetables: Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. No need to thaw them beforehand! Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in cooked lentils or quinoa for extra protein and heartiness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Frozen Vegetable Soup:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked vegetables will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
- Add Protein: Chicken or vegetable broth can easily replace the vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Soup: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream before serving for a creamy texture.
- Hearty Soup: Add cooked pasta, rice, or barley for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your meal plan. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific vegetables used and added ingredients.
This frozen vegetable soup is a testament to how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a fantastic option for a healthy meal that requires minimal prep time, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious dinner. Enjoy this simple and satisfying recipe!