Are you looking for a delicious and healthy soup recipe that's quick to make and bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This vegetable soup, made without tomatoes, is a fantastic option for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or even a healthy packed lunch. Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is surprisingly simple and packed with goodness. It's one of those easy recipes that's both satisfying and incredibly nutritious, making it a staple in our household. Let's dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- 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 wonderful base of flavor for your soup.
- Add garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step infuses the soup with incredible aroma.
- Pour in the broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add remaining vegetables: Add the green beans, broccoli, zucchini, potatoes, and corn to the boiling broth. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
- Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs will elevate the flavor of your soup. If you don't have fresh parsley, you can use a pinch of dried parsley instead.
- Adjust the vegetables: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Other great additions include peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Vegetable Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Hearty Vegetable Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
- Lemon Vegetable Soup: Add the juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a bright, zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: Around 5-7g
- Fiber: Around 5-7g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
This easy vegetable soup recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a delicious and satisfying option for any time of day. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece!