Easy Vegetable Soup

This Easy Vegetable Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep option. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, making it a delicious and nutritious choice. This soup is not only simple to prepare but also adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand, ensuring that you’ll enjoy it time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The Easy Vegetable Soup takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: With fresh herbs and a variety of vegetables, each spoonful is rich in taste and nutrition.
• Versatile: Customize your soup by adding any seasonal veggies you have lying around or adjusting the spices to your preference.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber and vitamins, this soup is low in calories but high in satisfaction.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later use; it’s perfect for meal prepping!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients together evenly without overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A good knife ensures precise cuts, making prep quicker and easier.

Ingredients

This easy vegetable soup recipe is packed with delicious flavor and uses the simplest vegetables to their full potential! Watch the video below to see how I make it in my kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 4 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
– 3 celery ribs (sliced)
– 4 garlic cloves (minced)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 3 Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
– 1 ½ cups chopped fresh green beans
– 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
– 2 bay leaves
– 6 to 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (depending on how brothy you’d like it)
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Easy Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
1. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery.
2. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper; sauté for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add More Veggies

Add the peeled and diced potatoes, chopped green beans, canned diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and vegetable broth.
1. Stir everything together well.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Add the Frozen Veggies

Now it’s time to enhance your soup with some frozen vegetables!
1. Add frozen corn and frozen peas to the pot.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Once everything is cooked through:
1. Turn off the heat.
2. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for added freshness.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

With this easy vegetable soup recipe, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Easy Vegetable Soup

Serving Easy Vegetable Soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavors and making the meal more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup night.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread makes the perfect accompaniment for dipping into your soup.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like basil or cilantro on top just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Include a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette complements the richness of the vegetable soup.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the broth.

Serve with Crackers

• Offer a variety of crackers on the side for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Offer a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A spoonful of sour cream on top provides creaminess and balances the soup’s acidity.

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How to Perfect Easy Vegetable Soup

Perfecting your Easy Vegetable Soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to achieve the best results:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup vibrant and delicious.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables for variety and freshness.
• Control Consistency: Adjust the amount of broth based on how thick or brothy you prefer your soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and seasoning levels during cooking for the best flavor balance.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a while after cooking intensifies flavors as they meld together.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well, so make extra to enjoy later; simply reheat when needed.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegetable Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegetable Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds a savory touch that complements the soup beautifully.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo; ooey-gooey cheese melts perfectly alongside hot soup.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing brings a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and pairs wonderfully with your vegetable medley.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty sides offer protein and fiber, making them filling alongside the soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast, especially in warmer months.
7. Quinoa Salad: This nutty salad offers additional protein and makes for a healthy pairing.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide warmth and sweetness that balances out the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making easy vegetable soup can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables first can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté onions, carrots, and celery to enhance their taste.
• Using too little broth: If you don’t use enough broth, your soup may end up too thick or bland. Adjust the amount based on how brothy you want it.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for just fork-tender potatoes and beans to maintain some texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Adding salt and pepper at the start is important, but you should taste and adjust seasoning before serving for optimal flavor.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness to your soup. Don’t forget to stir them in just before serving for maximum freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Vegetable Soup

• Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for freshness.

Reheating Easy Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered oven-safe pot, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making easy vegetable soup.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Easy Vegetable Soup?

Yes! Frozen vegetables are a great way to make quick soup without sacrificing nutrition. Just add them towards the end of cooking.

What can I add to Easy Vegetable Soup for more protein?

You can add beans, lentils, or even diced chicken or tofu to increase protein content while keeping it deliciously easy.

How do I customize Easy Vegetable Soup?

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer. Try zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers as tasty additions!

Is Easy Vegetable Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

What is the best way to serve Easy Vegetable Soup?

Serve it warm with crusty bread or over cooked grains like rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

This easy vegetable soup is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as part of meal prep. Give this recipe a try; you’ll find it’s both comforting and satisfying!