Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of year. This comforting soup is packed with a variety of vegetables and can be easily customized to include your favorites. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and is ideal for meal prep!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 zucchini (diced)
• 1 cup green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 cups spinach or kale (chopped)
• Optional toppings: Fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or croutons

Timing

Making Vegetable Soup takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

1. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes.
2. Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

1. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add Greens and Serve

1. Add Spinach or Kale: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or croutons if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Vegetable Soup (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	4g
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add Protein: Include cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken for added protein.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Vegetable Soup is a versatile and wholesome dish that is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be tailored to your taste preferences, making it a staple in any kitchen!