Are you craving a hearty, healthy, and unbelievably flavorful soup? Look no further! This Jamie Oliver-inspired veggie soup is bursting with fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors, making it the perfect quick dinner idea or a healthy meal for any time of day. It's surprisingly simple to make, perfect for homemade cooking, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. This easy recipe is so adaptable; you can easily customize it to your liking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 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 onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your soup.
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Build the soup: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add the zucchini, green beans, and potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Finishing touches: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This delicious dish is perfect served with a crusty bread roll for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Veggie Soup:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want your vegetables to be tender but still retain some texture. Overcooked vegetables will become mushy.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs will add a brighter, more vibrant flavor to your soup than dried herbs. If using fresh herbs, add them during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You might also want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Delicious Variations:
- Add beans: Include a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or chickpeas for added protein and fiber.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
- Lentil soup: Replace some of the vegetables with lentils for a hearty and protein-packed meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 200-250 Protein: Around 5-7 grams Fiber: Around 6-8 grams
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple yet delicious Jamie Oliver-inspired veggie soup is a perfect example of easy recipes that are both healthy and satisfying. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal. Enjoy!