Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that's also packed with nutrients? Look no further! This vegetable soup recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, is the perfect answer. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a comforting homemade meal.
Ingredients:
This delicious and healthy recipe requires simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry!
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g (14 oz) chopped tomatoes (canned are fine!)
- 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable stock
- 400g (14 oz) can of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 100g (3.5 oz) green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
This vegetable soup recipe is as easy as 1,2,3! Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions:
- 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.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Soup: Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, cannellini beans, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Finish it Off: Stir in the broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade, healthy, and delicious vegetable soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup:
- Don't Overcook the Vegetables: Overcooked vegetables will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly. If you have fresh oregano and basil, use them instead of the dried versions.
- Adjust the Stock: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of vegetable stock. For a thinner soup, add more.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, lentils, or chickpeas to your soup.
Variations:
- Spicy Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamy Soup: Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut milk before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, or corn.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This delicious and healthy soup is low in calories and high in nutrients. Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for personalized data, based on your specific recipe adjustments.
This vegetable soup is a wonderful example of a quick and easy recipe that's also packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s a perfect addition to any weeknight dinner rotation, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to processed meals. This best recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!