Vegetable Soup

This hot and comforting vegetable soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or looking for a healthy addition to your meal plan, this soup is brimming with vibrant veggies and infused with flavorful herbs. Its rich broth, combined with a variety of vegetables, makes it a delightful choice for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, this soup offers essential vitamins and minerals in every bowl.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a deliciously rich broth that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this hearty soup ready in less than an hour.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient. Having everything ready will help you create this delicious vegetable soup without any hiccups.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Soup Pot
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Garlic Press

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: Essential for cooking soups evenly while allowing space for all the ingredients to simmer together.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.
• Garlic Press: This tool helps release maximum flavor from garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This hot and comforting vegetable soup is coziness in a bowl, brimming with healthy, vibrant veggies in a rich broth infused with herbs!

Ingredients:
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
– 2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly
– 3 carrots, peeled and diced small
– 3 parsnips, peeled and diced small
– 3 celery ribs, diced small
– 2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small
– Salt
– Black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
– 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained and seeded, finely diced
– 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
– 1 cup peas
– 1 cup kale, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chopped, fresh parsley
– Small squeeze of lemon

How to Make Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering and prepping all of your ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Place a medium-large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add in the ghee or butter along with olive oil. Once melted together:
1. Add in the leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, diced potatoes.
2. Season with a pinch or two of salt and black pepper.
3. Cook those together for about 3–4 minutes until they start to become slightly translucent.

Step 3: Add Herbs & Garlic

Add the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, along with the pressed garlic into the pot:
1. Stir those ingredients together to ensure they are well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes & Broth

Now it’s time to add some heartiness:
1. Add the diced tomatoes followed by vegetable or chicken stock.
2. Bring everything to a boil; once boiling, reduce heat to allow it to simmer gently.
3. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes until vegetables are tender but still retain some bite.

Step 5: Final Touches

Turn off the heat:
1. Stir in peas, kale, chopped parsley, and add a small squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Taste your soup; adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving.

This easy-to-make vegetable soup is not just nutritious but also bursts with flavors that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve Vegetable Soup

Serving vegetable soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your vegetable soup with a slice of freshly baked crusty bread for dipping. The bread adds texture and absorbs the flavorful broth beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil on top just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Garnished with Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, for a rich, creamy texture. This combination complements the veggies perfectly.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve your soup alongside a crisp green salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette can balance the warmth of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your vegetable soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also makes for an edible serving dish!

How to Perfect Vegetable Soup

Creating the perfect vegetable soup is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is always delightful.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh produce will enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your soup.
• Season gradually: Start with less salt and pepper; you can always add more as it cooks, ensuring you don’t oversalt.
• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to try different herbs or spices to create unique flavors that suit your taste.
• Blend for creaminess: If you desire a creamy texture, blend part of the soup after cooking and return it to the pot.
• Adjust broth flavors: Use homemade vegetable broth or enhance store-bought versions with extra herbs for depth.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Vegetable Soup

Complementing your vegetable soup with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   A classic pairing that offers gooey goodness alongside the warm broth.
2. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making every bite enjoyable.
3. Stuffed Peppers
   Hearty stuffed peppers filled with grains or quinoa provide additional substance to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of roasted veggies brings out natural sweetness and pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies creates a nutritious side full of protein.
6. Savory Scones
   Cheddar or herb scones offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor when served warm alongside soup.
7. Pita Chips
   Crunchy pita chips make for a fun dipping option while adding an element of crunch.
8. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw provides a crisp, tangy contrast that complements the hearty soup well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making vegetable soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can enhance the dish. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning is crucial. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper to elevate the flavor.
• Overcooking vegetables: Avoid mushy vegetables by simmering just until tender. This helps maintain their texture and vibrant color.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add depth. Incorporate them at the end of cooking for a burst of flavor rather than during the initial cooking.
• Not preparing ingredients ahead: Prepping all ingredients in advance saves time and ensures a smooth cooking process, keeping you organized in the kitchen.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth sets the foundation for your soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality vegetable or chicken broth for the best results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover vegetable soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Vegetable Soup

• Freeze vegetable soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer; label with date for reference.

Reheating Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making vegetable soup:

What vegetables work best in Vegetable Soup?

Many vegetables are perfect for vegetable soup! Carrots, celery, potatoes, kale, and peas add great flavor and nutrition.

Can I customize my Vegetable Soup recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or grains like quinoa or rice to make it heartier.

How long does Vegetable Soup last?

Vegetable soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Is this Vegetable Soup healthy?

Yes! This vegetable soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables used.

Final Thoughts

This comforting vegetable soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on seasonal veggies or personal preferences. Give it a try today!