There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially when you’re looking for easy and satisfying dinner ideas for one. I remember the first time I whipped up this simple recipe—it was a chilly evening, and I just wanted something cozy to wrap my hands around. The best part? It took hardly any time at all! I love how this soup is not only hearty and nourishing, but it also allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with some crusty bread for a delightful dinner. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to get your daily dose of veggies without feeling overwhelmed. Trust me, once you try making this, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again. It’s a go-to for those nights when you just want something simple yet delightful. So, let’s dive into this easy vegetable soup recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty vegetable soup. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that comforting flavor we all love!
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or substitute with water if needed)
- 1/2 cup diced carrots (fresh or frozen work well)
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes (I prefer using Yukon Gold for their creaminess)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery (adds a lovely crunch)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (for that aromatic base)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (the juice adds great flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or any herbs you enjoy—basil is a great swap!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
Feel free to mix it up with any other veggies you have on hand—zucchini, green beans, or even some spinach would be delicious additions!
How to Prepare Instructions
Making this vegetable soup is as easy as pie, and I’m here to guide you through every step! Just gather your ingredients, and let’s create something warm and delightful. Trust me, you’ll be savoring every spoonful in no time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. This will help get those flavors going!
- Once the oil is hot, add in your chopped onions, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the veggies start to soften. It’ll smell heavenly!
- Next, toss in the diced potatoes to the pot. Give them a gentle stir and let them cook for about another 5 minutes. This helps them soften just enough before we add the liquid.
- Now, it’s time to pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth and the 1 cup of canned diced tomatoes (don’t forget to add the juice!). Stir everything together. It’s starting to look like soup!
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust these later, so don’t worry if you’re unsure—just start with a little.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This is when all those amazing flavors meld together, and your kitchen will smell divine!
- Finally, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the warm soup into a bowl, and feel that cozy warmth wrap around you. Enjoy every last drop!
And there you have it! A simple, hearty soup that’s incredibly satisfying. Remember, you can always add in any leftover veggies or beans for extra goodness. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This vegetable soup is quick to make, perfect for those busy nights when you just want something warm and comforting.
- It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice that’s still satisfying.
- The flavors are incredibly comforting, with the aromatic herbs blending beautifully with the fresh vegetables.
- You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, so it’s a great way to reduce food waste.
- This recipe is perfect for one serving, but you can easily double or triple it if you’re sharing or want leftovers!
- It’s naturally vegetarian, and you can make it vegan by swapping in vegetable broth and adding your favorite plant-based proteins.
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to make your vegetable soup even more delightful! First, don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables. If you have some leftover bell peppers or even broccoli, toss them in! They can add great color and flavor.
If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider adding canned beans or lentils during the simmering stage. They’ll not only boost the protein content but also make the soup more filling.
For those who need a low-sodium option, you can use low-sodium vegetable broth or just stick with water. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go! And don’t forget—safety first! Be careful when handling hot pots, and always use oven mitts if needed.
Lastly, feel free to garnish your soup with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt to add a special touch. Enjoy your cozy creation!
Nutritional Information
While this hearty vegetable soup is nutritious and comforting, please note that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. This recipe serves one bowl, with an estimated calorie count of about 150. For precise dietary needs, always check the labels of your ingredients and adjust accordingly. Enjoy your healthy meal with peace of mind!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables are wonderful in this soup. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on how long they take to soften. You can use any veggies you have on hand—zucchini, green beans, or even some leafy greens like spinach would be fantastic!
How can I store leftovers?
If you have any soup left, simply let it cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze this vegetable soup?
Yes, you can! Once it’s cooled, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It should be good for about 2-3 months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple salad. You could also top it with Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor. It’s a comforting meal on its own, but a side will make it feel even more special!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This vegetable soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on your vegetable broth and canned tomatoes to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients. Enjoy your comforting bowl without worry!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious vegetable soup is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep nicely in the fridge for about 3-4 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave for a few minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Just watch out—it can get hot quickly! Enjoy your comforting bowl of goodness!
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Dinner Ideas for One: 7 Comforting Recipes to Savor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and comforting recipe for a hearty vegetable soup, perfect for dinner ideas for one.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and canned tomatoes.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with water if needed.
- Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand.
- For a heartier meal, add beans or lentils.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: dinner ideas for one, easy soup recipe, comforting meal
