There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, isn’t there? It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you just need a little comfort. This hearty vegetable soup is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also bursting with flavor and nutrition. As we look ahead to the upcoming trends in recipes for 2025, this simple yet delightful recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the delightful aromas will fill your home, making everyone feel cozy and cared for. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. So grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into making a delicious homemade soup that will warm your heart and nourish your body!
Ingredients List
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like peas, corn, and green beans)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
- First, let’s heat things up! In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This will help sauté the veggies and bring out their flavors.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This is where the magic starts! Keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn.
- Now, it’s time to add some aroma! Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. You’ll want to be careful here, as garlic can burn quickly. Trust me, you don’t want that!
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes. The broth will serve as the base of your soup, so make sure to scrape up any little bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—those add flavor!
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. These herbs will elevate your soup to the next level. Stir everything together gently.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes—this gives the flavors time to meld beautifully.
- After 20 minutes, add in your 2 cups of mixed vegetables. You can use fresh or frozen, whatever you have on hand! Let them cook for another 10 minutes. This will heat them through and keep them vibrant.
- Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this is your chance to make it just right! Give it a good stir, and your comforting vegetable soup is ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days.
- This hearty vegetable soup is packed with flavor, making it a delightful meal for the whole family.
- With fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthy choice that still feels indulgent.
- This recipe is versatile—you can easily adapt it based on what you have in your pantry.
- It’s a comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out, ideal for any occasion.
- Great for all ages, this soup can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to grandparents.
- Leftovers keep well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep throughout the week.
- It’s a wonderful way to sneak in those extra veggies, without anyone even noticing!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect vegetable soup is all about personal touches and adjustments! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just right:
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Don’t worry if you don’t have fresh vegetables on hand—frozen veggies work wonderfully and save time!
- Beans & Lentils: For a heartier soup, feel free to add cooked beans or lentils. They not only boost protein but also add a lovely texture.
- Herb Variations: If you’re out of thyme or basil, try using Italian seasoning or even a pinch of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Low-Sodium Options: For those watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium vegetable broth and adjust the salt to taste.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or some freshly cracked black pepper!
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you and your loved ones. Enjoy the process!
Variations
One of the best things about this vegetable soup is how adaptable it is! If you want to mix things up, try adding different herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist. You can also experiment with spices such as cumin or paprika for added warmth. Feeling adventurous? Swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes to keep it interesting!
For an even heartier soup, consider incorporating cooked beans, like black beans or chickpeas, or some lentils. They’ll not only boost the protein content but also make your soup even more satisfying. Enjoy the creative process!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for a serving size of 1 cup of this comforting vegetable soup. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This soup is not only hearty and filling but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal any day of the week!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your vegetable soup is super simple, and it’s a great way to enjoy it later! Once your soup has cooled down, ladle it into airtight containers. Make sure to leave a little space at the top, as the soup may expand when frozen. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just label the containers with the date so you don’t forget!
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating it is a breeze. For the best results, thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through—usually about 5-10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl. Just cover it loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming. Enjoy your comforting bowl once again!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a fantastic option when you’re short on time or fresh produce. They’re often just as nutritious and can save you prep time. Just toss them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking, and they’ll warm up nicely!
How do I make the soup heartier?
If you’d like to add more substance to your soup, consider incorporating cooked beans or lentils. They not only provide protein but also make the soup more filling and satisfying. You can also add more mixed vegetables or even some whole grains like quinoa or barley for extra texture.
What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
No worries at all! If you find yourself without vegetable broth, you can substitute it with water. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a few herbs, like bay leaves or additional garlic, to give it a little extra oomph!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Just sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a pan first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker along with the broth, tomatoes, and herbs. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’ll be just as delicious!
How should I store leftover soup?
To store your leftover vegetable soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date!
What to Serve with Vegetable Soup
Pairing your comforting vegetable soup with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or a buttery dinner roll is perfect for dipping into the soup. You can’t go wrong with a classic!
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch.
- Grilled Cheese: For a nostalgic touch, serve your soup alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
- Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are another wonderful accompaniment that adds a savory touch to your meal.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings, and find your favorite combinations to make your soup experience even more satisfying!
Print
Recipes for 2025: 7 Comforting Soups to Warm Your Heart
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and easy recipe for a hearty vegetable soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like peas, corn, and green beans)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes.
- Stir in thyme and basil.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- You can substitute any fresh or frozen vegetables.
- For a heartier soup, add cooked beans or lentils.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegetable soup, easy soup recipe, comfort food
