There’s nothing like a bowl of cozy, nutritious vegetable soup to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. This vegetable soup is packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients, providing a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a cozy lunch, this recipe is easy to prepare and versatile enough to accommodate your favorite vegetables.
Why This Vegetable Soup is So Nutritious
Fresh Vegetables: Using a variety of fresh vegetables ensures a wide range of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
Low in Calories: This soup is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
Rich in Antioxidants: The diverse vegetables provide a rich supply of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and support overall health.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Cozy and Nutritious Vegetable Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and chop all the vegetables as specified in the ingredients list. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Incorporate the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (including their juice). Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme and oregano, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Corn and Peas: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the corn and peas. These vegetables cook quickly and will retain their vibrant color and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This cozy and nutritious vegetable soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a warm, comforting dish. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any season. Delight your taste buds and nourish your body with this hearty and healthy soup. Bon appétit!