Vegetable Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Vegetable Soup. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen was filled with the warm aromas of sautéing vegetables, and I could hardly wait for dinner. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients made it not just a meal, but a feast for the eyes. You see, Vegetable Soup isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly winter evenings when all you want is something hearty and satisfying. It reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone would gather around the table, bowls in hand, sharing stories and laughter. This soup is versatile—a blank canvas, really! You can change up the veggies based on what you have on hand. Every spoonful is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, and I can’t help but smile each time I serve it. So, let me take you on a journey to recreate this comforting classic in your own kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegetable Soup

When it comes to making a delicious Vegetable Soup, the key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the soup’s rich flavor and texture. Let’s explore the essential ingredients that will work together harmoniously to create this comforting dish.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 zucchini, chopped
• 10 oz green beans, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 10 oz cauliflower florets
• 4 cups cabbage leaves, chopped, washed
• 2 quarts low sodium beef stock (chicken or vegetable broth may be used)
• 2 teaspoons beef bouillon powder (chicken or vegetable may be used)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if desired – adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to season)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 4 cups spinach leaves, washed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

How to Cook Vegetable Soup

Cooking Vegetable Soup is both easy and rewarding, making it a great dish to whip up any day of the week. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious soup that warms you from the inside out. Let’s get started!

1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-low heat. Once the oil is simmering and fragrant, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they soften slightly, about 8 minutes. This is the base of your soup, so take your time to let them develop their flavor.
2. Next, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when you start to smell the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Now, it’s time to add the zucchini and green beans. Stir them in and continue to cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. The vegetables should start to soften but still retain some crunch. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Once the zucchini and green beans are slightly tender, throw in the cauliflower florets and cabbage leaves. Stir to combine, and then pour in the beef stock, bringing the mixture to a high heat. We want to get this soup simmering!
5. As the soup comes to a boil, season with the bouillon powder and cayenne. Taste the broth during this step and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. This is your chance to make it just right!
6. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook until all the vegetables are fork-tender, which should take about 20 minutes. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a rich, comforting broth.
7. After the vegetables have reached that perfect tenderness, add in the washed spinach leaves. Stir them through until they wilt down, which will only take a minute or two.
8. Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh note that balances all the earthy flavors.
9. Adjust any final seasonings as needed, and serve immediately. You’ll find that this Vegetable Soup not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to enhance your Vegetable Soup experience, there are plenty of ways to mix it up. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Storage: Properly store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: Enjoy your Vegetable Soup with a side of fresh bread, crackers, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Spice it up: Want more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños while cooking.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for unique flavor profiles.
• Protein boost: Consider adding some beans or lentils for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
• Seasonal veggies: Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest taste and nutrition. The soup changes with the season!

How to Serve Vegetable Soup

Serving Vegetable Soup is as delightful as making it. Here are some tips for enjoying this comforting dish:

• With Bread: Serve hot with a warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garnish: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch.
• Occasions: This soup is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even gatherings during the winter holidays.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within three days for optimal freshness.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve with roasted squash or in the spring, pair with a refreshing green salad.
• Kids’ Delight: Make it fun for kids by letting them help add toppings like cheese or croutons.
• Last-Minute Meals: This soup can also be made for last-minute guests. Just whip it up and serve!

FAQ

Conclusion

The heartwarming essence of Vegetable Soup makes it a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food. With its nourishing ingredients, it not only warms your body but also your soul. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the delightful flavors that come together in every bowl. You’ll find that it’s perfect for chilly days, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients and get cooking!

Vegetable Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Vegetable Soup is packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty flavors. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for chilly nights, bringing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Make it tonight for a nourishing meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Soups

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Peeler
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 zucchini, chopped
• 10 oz green beans, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 10 oz cauliflower florets
• 4 cups cabbage leaves, chopped, washed
• 2 quarts low sodium beef stock (chicken or vegetable broth may be used)
• 2 teaspoons beef bouillon powder (chicken or vegetable may be used)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if desired – adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to season)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 4 cups spinach leaves, washed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Instructions

 

• Begin by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-low heat. Once the oil is simmering and fragrant, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they soften slightly, about 8 minutes. This is the base of your soup, so take your time to let them develop their flavor.
• Next, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when you start to smell the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
• Now, it’s time to add the zucchini and green beans. Stir them in and continue to cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. The vegetables should start to soften but still retain some crunch. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Once the zucchini and green beans are slightly tender, throw in the cauliflower florets and cabbage leaves. Stir to combine, and then pour in the beef stock, bringing the mixture to a high heat. We want to get this soup simmering!
• As the soup comes to a boil, season with the bouillon powder and cayenne. Taste the broth during this step and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. This is your chance to make it just right!
• Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook until all the vegetables are fork-tender, which should take about 20 minutes. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a rich, comforting broth.
• After the vegetables have reached that perfect tenderness, add in the washed spinach leaves. Stir them through until they wilt down, which will only take a minute or two.
• Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh note that balances all the earthy flavors.
• Adjust any final seasonings as needed, and serve immediately. You'll find that this Vegetable Soup not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart!

Notes

• Tip 1: Properly store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Tip 3: Enjoy your Vegetable Soup with a side of fresh bread, crackers, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Want more heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños while cooking.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for unique flavor profiles.
• Tip 6: Consider adding some beans or lentils for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
• Tip 7: Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest taste and nutrition. The soup changes with the season!

Keyword easy vegetable soup recipe, healthy vegetable soup, vegetable soup for meal prep, winter soup recipes

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!