Craving a warm, hearty, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious vegetable soup with dumplings recipe! This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a potluck contribution. It's packed with fresh vegetables, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings that will leave everyone wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, delivering a delicious and healthy meal without hours spent in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Making the Soup:
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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 the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, corn, and zucchini. Stir in the oregano and basil.
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Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Making the Dumplings:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Add the milk and melted butter and stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. The dough should be slightly thick.
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Once the soup has simmered, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup.
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Cover the pot and continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the vegetable soup with dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese adds extra flavor and richness. This quick dinner idea is also perfect for meal prepping – simply store leftovers in the refrigerator for a delicious and easy lunch the next day.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
- Add protein: Include cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you like. Potatoes, peas, mushrooms, and spinach are all great additions.
- Make it ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. Add the dumplings just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This healthy meal is a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying vegetable soup with dumplings recipe!