Broth based Vegetable Soup

Broth based Vegetable Soup

Broth based vegetable soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables. This soup is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a healthy meal any time of the year.

It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized based on seasonal vegetables, personal preferences, or whatever you have on hand.

Whether you are looking to cleanse your palate or simply enjoy a warm bowl of goodness, this soup delivers comfort and nourishment with every spoonful.

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, broth-based vegetable soup is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

The base of the soup, usually made from vegetable broth, is enhanced by herbs and spices, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine.

This recipe not only provides a nutritious meal but also warms the soul on chilly days or serves as a refreshing starter.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced potatoes or sweet potatoes
• 1 cup cooked beans (like chickpeas or cannellini beans)
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce or red pepper flakes (for heat)

How to Make Broth-Based Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables 4. Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. 5. Next, add the diced zucchini and green beans. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Broth and Seasonings 6. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. 7. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Greens and Final Touches 8. Stir in the fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow the greens to wilt and incorporate into the soup. 9. If desired, add the juice of one lemon for a refreshing brightness. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve 10. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. 11. Serve hot, and enjoy with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Chef’s Note

Broth-based vegetable soup is highly adaptable, allowing you to use any vegetables you enjoy or have available. Consider adding seasonal vegetables like squash, pumpkin, or root vegetables in the fall and winter, or fresh herbs like basil or dill in the spring and summer.

To add protein and make the soup more filling, consider incorporating cooked beans, lentils, or diced chicken or turkey. This soup is also a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables, making it an environmentally friendly option.

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or a countertop blender and stir it back into the pot. This will create a creamier texture while still maintaining the chunky goodness of the vegetables.

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Broth-based vegetable soup is not only a hearty and flavorful dish but also a beautiful way to showcase the bounty of vegetables available in your kitchen. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a sandwich or salad.

This soup is an excellent reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious and nourishing. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of a wholesome meal with every bowl!

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