This Quick Vegetable Soup is a wholesome, nourishing dish that can be made in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a light meal during the day.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Packed with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and spices
The Benefits of Fresh Vegetables
Incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables into your meals is essential for maintaining a healthy diet. Each vegetable brings its own unique set of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being. Carrots, for instance, are rich in beta-carotene, which supports vision and skin health. Spinach is loaded with iron and vitamins A and C, making it a powerhouse for boosting immunity and energy levels.
Moreover, vegetables are high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. This soup is a wonderful way to incorporate multiple servings of vegetables in one delicious meal, ensuring you get a nutritious boost while enjoying a comforting bowl of warmth.
A Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
On busy weeknights, preparing a wholesome meal can feel like a daunting task. This Quick Vegetable Soup is designed to simplify your cooking routine without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can have a hearty soup ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for families juggling work, school, and other commitments.
Additionally, the soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Simply reheat and enjoy a nutritious meal in minutes. This versatility makes it a perfect candidate for meal prep, allowing you to save time and reduce stress during hectic evenings.
Endless Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this vegetable soup is its adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some zucchini or sweet potatoes? Go ahead! Prefer a spicier kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun and creative dish to experiment with.
This customization also allows you to utilize whatever vegetables you have on hand, reducing food waste and saving money. Whether you opt for seasonal produce or frozen vegetables, this soup can be tailored to your pantry and palate, ensuring you enjoy every spoonful.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups of spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to add any other vegetables you love!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer and Add Spinach
Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. In the last few minutes, add the spinach and cook until wilted.
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Quick Vegetable Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Simply ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, but be sure to cover it loosely to allow steam to escape.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Vegetable Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream can add a rich, creamy element that complements the soup's flavors beautifully.
For an extra burst of freshness, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors and give your soup a zesty twist. These simple additions can transform your bowl of soup into a gourmet experience.
Nutritional Information
This Quick Vegetable Soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Each serving is low in calories while being packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. The fiber from the vegetables aids digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, while the antioxidants provide protection against various diseases.
For those following specific dietary guidelines, this soup is vegan, gluten-free, and easily adaptable for low-sodium diets by using low-sodium broth and omitting added salt. Enjoy this meal guilt-free, knowing that you're nourishing your body with every spoonful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great and can save you time!
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.
→ Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier version.
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Quick Vegetable Soup Recipe
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetables
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups of spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the bell pepper, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. In the last few minutes, add the spinach and cook until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 4g