How to Make a Simple Soup with Vegetables

Making Simple Vegetable Soup: It's Easier Than You Think!

Want a quick, healthy, and easy meal? Look no further! This simple vegetable soup recipe is perfect for beginners. It's super easy and uses ingredients you probably already have. Need a healthy dinner or something to meal prep? This is it.

Why Make Simple Vegetable Soup?

There are tons of good reasons to make this soup:

• Healthy: It's packed with vitamins and fiber from all those veggies! It's a nutritious way to eat your greens.
• Easy: Seriously, minimal chopping and cooking time. Think of it as a relaxing cooking project, not a chore.
• Cheap: Uses everyday, affordable veggies. Budget-friendly doesn't mean boring!
• Flexible: Use whatever veggies you like! Add beans for extra protein, or whatever is in season. Get creative!
• Great for Meal Prepping: Make a big batch and have lunches or dinners ready all week. Perfect for busy people.

What You'll Need: Simple Vegetable Soup Ingredients

This recipe is super flexible. Use what you have! Here's a basic list:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth – it adds a richer flavor!)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1 cup chopped broccoli
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish (it looks fancy!)

How to Make Simple Vegetable Soup: Step-by-Step

1. Sauté the Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes. This brings out all the yummy flavors.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for a minute until fragrant. This step is key for flavor!
3. Add the Broth and More Veggies: Pour in the broth and tomatoes. Add the potatoes and green beans.
4. Simmer Time: Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Let those flavors blend!
5. Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp. Don't overcook it!
6. Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley if you're feeling fancy. Serve hot! Enjoy!

Tips for the BEST Simple Vegetable Soup

• Fresh is Best: Fresh veggies taste amazing! If using frozen, add them at the end.
• Don't Overcook: You want tender-crisp veggies, not mush.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and add more herbs, spices, salt, or pepper as needed.
• Add Protein: Lentils, chickpeas, or beans make this soup even more filling. Add them in the last 15 minutes.
• Get Creative!: Zucchini, corn, peas, mushrooms, spinach… the possibilities are endless!
• Creamy Dreamy: A dollop of yogurt or sour cream makes it extra creamy.
• Bay Leaf Boost: Add a bay leaf while simmering for extra flavor (remove before serving).
• Meal Prep Winner: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Fun Variations to Try!

This recipe is your blank canvas. Try these ideas:

• Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Creamy Tomato: Blend some of the soup for a creamier texture.
• Italian: Add Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
• Hearty Vegetarian: Add different types of beans for extra protein.

Enjoy Your Delicious Soup!

Making your own vegetable soup is super rewarding! It's tasty, healthy, and easy on your wallet. This recipe is a great starting point, so experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!