Vegetable Soup
Vegetable soup stands as a comforting and nourishing classic, embracing the essence of wholesome goodness. As a versatile dish, it showcases an array of colorful and nutrient-rich vegetables, simmered in flavorful broth, creating a delightful medley of tastes and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 chopped green beans
- 4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cup water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and release their delightful aroma.
- Add Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced zucchini to the pot. Sauté for a few more minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and water, then add the diced tomatoes and chopped green beans. Stir well to combine
- Seasonings: Drop in the bay leaf and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Adjust the seasoning of the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heatto a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes oruntil the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the vegetable soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley orbasil leaves for a burst of herbal freshness.
Notes
- Vegetable Selection: Feel free to customize the vegetable selection based on your preferences and what's in season. You can add or substitute with other favorites like corn, peas, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Broth Options: Use vegetable broth for a completely vegetarian version, or you can opt for chicken or beef broth if desired.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or sage for unique flavor profiles.
- Storage and Reheating: Vegetable soup keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep. Warm it up on the stove top or in the microwave just before serving.