There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of vegetable soup to make you feel good inside and out. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re just in need of some comfort food, this vegetable soup recipe is sure to become a favorite. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and rich flavors, it’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. Here’s a friendly guide to making a delicious vegetable soup that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. This includes the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Sautéing the Base
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Adding the Vegetables
Next, add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and potatoes to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to soften the vegetables and blend the flavors.
4. Simmering the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes, zucchini, green beans, thyme, and basil. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Final Touches
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chopped kale or spinach to the pot. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, just until the greens are wilted. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoying Your Soup
Serve your vegetable soup hot, with a slice of crusty bread on the side. It’s a perfect meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a salad for a more substantial meal. This soup is not only delicious but also versatile; feel free to add any other vegetables you love or have on hand.
This vegetable soup recipe is designed to be easy, healthy, and incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it’s a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one delightful dish. Happy cooking!