Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe

Looking for a comforting dish that’s both hearty and low-cost? This vegetable soup is your answer! It’s packed with a variety of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection, making it an ideal meal for any day of the week. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up any produce you have on hand.

For a classic Italian twist, try minestrone soup.

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your fridge. Want to make it more filling? Prep idea: Simmer all ingredients in a large pot. Portion into containers for a hearty and low-cost meal. You can also add pasta or rice for extra bulk!

Pair with a versatile grain bowl for a complete meal.

Delicious and Nutritious Vegetable Soup

Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe

Recipe by Meal Prep ChefCourse: Budget-Friendly Meal PrepCuisine: InternationalDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup cooked pasta or rice (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
• Stir in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add the zucchini, green beans, vegetable broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
• If desired, stir in cooked pasta or rice for extra bulk.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Key Prep Tips

1. Chop Evenly: Dice vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and a cohesive texture.
2. Use Seasonal Vegetables: Opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, or green beans for the best flavor.
3. Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors and create a rich broth.
4. Enhance with Herbs: Add dried or fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or bay leaves for an aromatic depth.

Suggested Variations

• Protein Boost: Include chickpeas, lentils, or beans for added protein and heartiness.
• Grain Addition: Stir in rice, quinoa, or small pasta like orzo for extra texture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, paprika, or curry powder for a flavorful twist.
• Creamy Option: Blend part of the soup or add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Standalone Meal: Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
• Meal Prep Ready: Store in airtight containers for easy reheatable lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Beverages: Serve with hot tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with herbs for a refreshing pairing.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a swirl of olive oil for a polished finish.