Soup is a nutritious and delicious way to get your daily dose of vegetables. It’s also an easy meal to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Vegetable soup is a classic favorite that is not only great for your health but is also comforting and warming during the winter months. Here’s how to make vegetable soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, chopped
– 1 medium yellow squash, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their juices
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and yellow squash to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the thyme, bay leaf, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
FAQs:
1. What are the benefits of vegetable soup?
Vegetable soup is a healthy and nutritious meal that’s loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s also low in calories, making it a great choice for those who are trying to lose weight. Vegetable soup can help boost your immune system, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables to make vegetable soup?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables to make vegetable soup. Just make sure to thaw them first before adding them to the pot. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and don’t become mushy.
3. Can I make vegetable soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make vegetable soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker, set it to low heat, and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Can I add meat or poultry to vegetable soup?
Yes, you can add meat or poultry to vegetable soup. Simply brown the meat or poultry in a separate pan before adding it to the soup. This will help add flavor and protein to the soup.
5. How long will vegetable soup last in the refrigerator?
Vegetable soup will last for up to five days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply heat the soup over low heat until it’s heated through. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add a little bit of water or broth to thin it out.
