Craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that reminds you of home-cooked meals? Look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved Cracker Barrel Vegetable Soup, bringing that familiar deliciousness right to your kitchen. It's packed with fresh vegetables, hearty broth, and just the right amount of seasoning – a perfect example of healthy meals and easy recipes all in one. This quick dinner idea is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's dive into this homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses common ingredients, making it a great choice for your weekly meal planning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Follow these simple instructions for a perfect bowl of homemade vegetable soup.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 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. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the green bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, corn, potatoes, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If using pasta, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Soup Game
- For a richer flavor: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
- Add protein: Include cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier soup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer texture.
- Fresh herbs are best: If possible, use fresh thyme and basil for a more vibrant flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This delicious and easy-to-make Cracker Barrel Vegetable Soup is a perfect example of delicious dishes and best recipes you can easily make at home. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy your homemade bowl of comfort!