Easy and Delicious Vegetable Soup Recipe

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by prepping all your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. If using fresh corn and peas, prepare them as well.
2. Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes, zucchini, green beans, corn, peas, dried thyme, and dried basil. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Finish with Greens and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt in the hot soup for a couple of minutes. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Tips and Variations

• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even mushrooms would make excellent additions.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add a can of beans (such as chickpeas or white beans) or cooked lentils to the soup.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sautéed vegetables.
• Herb Swaps: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried ones. If using fresh thyme or basil, add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water, as the soup tends to thicken upon standing.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a cozy dinner, consider serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a baked potato.