Ah, the magic of a cold, blustery evening when all you crave is warmth in a bowl—enter this easy healthy vegetable soup. It’s like a hug from your grandma, if your grandma were a collection of vibrant veggies and herbs simmering together in perfect harmony. Last week, while waiting for the new season of that Netflix series (you know the one), I whipped up a pot of this soup, and let me tell you, it felt like a cozy blanket for the soul.
Steps
- Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and sauté chopped onions and celery until they become translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (preferably basil and oregano flavored) and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
- Incorporate diced carrots, potatoes, and any other desired vegetables such as bell peppers or squash. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano and basil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer and cover the pot. Allow the soup to cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Optionally, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of sugar for added depth of flavor.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your homemade vegetable soup!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with basil and oregano
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 beef bouillon cube (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
FAQ
- Can I customize the vegetable soup by adding different ingredients?
- Absolutely! Many people enjoy personalizing this soup by adding ingredients like diced ribeye, chicken, or hamburger beef. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and proteins to suit your taste.
- Is it possible to make this soup in a crockpot?
- Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for a crockpot. In fact, doubling the recipe should fit perfectly in a standard-sized crockpot, allowing for a convenient and hassle-free cooking experience.
- What can I use instead of V8 juice in the soup?
- If you’re looking for an alternative to V8 juice, some people recommend using Zing-Zang Bloody Mary mix or simply sticking with chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
- Can I make the soup vegetarian or vegan?
- Definitely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based broth. You can also omit any meat additions and focus on a variety of vegetables for a delicious vegetarian or vegan version.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
- Enhancing the flavor can be as simple as using flavored diced tomatoes, like those with basil and oregano. Sautéing onions and celery before adding them to the soup can also add depth to the flavor.
Tips
- Enhance the flavor by using diced tomatoes with basil and oregano, or try adding a pinch of sugar for a subtle sweetness.
- For a richer taste, consider sautéing onions and celery before adding them to the soup.
- Customize the soup by substituting water with chicken or vegetable broth, and experiment with adding proteins like chicken or beef for a heartier meal.
- Feel free to modify the recipe based on dietary needs or preferences, such as omitting corn or adding different vegetables like squash and bell peppers.
Equipment
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker) – If you plan to double the recipe or want to cook it in a slow cooker.
- Immersion Blender – If you prefer a smoother texture for your soup.
- Large Stockpot – If you don’t have one at home for making large batches of soup.
