Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add Root Vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, and potato to the pot. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.
Add the Rest of the Vegetables: Add the zucchini, green beans, and canned tomatoes (with juice) to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Finish the Soup: Add the frozen peas, corn, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and let cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the peas and corn to heat through.
Add Greens (Optional): If you’re adding spinach, stir it into the soup during the last 2 minutes of cooking to allow it to wilt.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. For added brightness, you can stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: This soup is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh green salad. For extra heartiness, consider adding cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta to the soup.
Storing: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of extra broth or water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Freezing: This vegetable soup freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Variants:
Add Protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken, beans (like cannellini, kidney, or chickpeas), or lentils. These options will provide additional protein and make the soup even more filling.
Spicy Vegetable Soup: Spice up the soup by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a spoonful of hot sauce to the pot for a flavorful kick.
Creamy Vegetable Soup: For a creamy version, blend a portion of the soup (or all of it) with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. You can also stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, velvety texture.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the potatoes and use cauliflower in its place for a lower-carb option while still maintaining a hearty texture.
Mediterranean Twist: Add some chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a teaspoon of basil or rosemary to give the soup a Mediterranean flair.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in place of fresh ones. In fact, frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and are often just as nutritious as fresh ones.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all the ingredients (except the spinach, peas, and corn) into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the peas, corn, and spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is it necessary to add the potatoes? No, you can leave out the potatoes if you prefer a lighter soup or if you’re looking for a lower-carb version. You can substitute the potatoes with extra carrots or zucchini for added texture.
How do I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup to create a creamier texture. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch or flour if needed.
Can I add noodles or pasta to this soup? Yes, adding noodles or pasta is a great way to make the soup more filling. If adding pasta, cook it separately and add it to the soup at the end to avoid it becoming mushy.
This hearty homemade vegetable soup is not only a nutritious and comforting dish but also incredibly customizable. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetable combinations and flavors to make it your own!
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