There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of healthy soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. This nutritious and hearty soup is packed with vibrant vegetables, making it not just a meal, but a delightful experience. I love how each spoonful is a burst of flavor and nourishment, perfect for cozy nights or a quick lunch. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up! With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create something so wholesome that your body will truly thank you for it. Plus, it’s vegan, which makes it suitable for everyone at the table. I can’t help but think about how this soup warms not just your body, but your soul too. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. You’ll never want to look at store-bought soup again!
Ingredients for Healthy Soup
To create this delightful healthy soup, you’ll need a selection of fresh and vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with their preparations:
- 2 cups of chopped carrots: Make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and a nice texture.
- 2 cups of chopped celery: This adds a lovely crunch and distinct flavor. Just chop it up small, similar in size to the carrots.
- 1 cup of diced onions: Dicing the onions will help them soften quickly and blend into the soup nicely.
- 3 cloves of minced garlic: Mince the garlic finely to release its wonderful aroma and flavor.
- 4 cups of vegetable broth: Choose a low-sodium version if you prefer to control the salt in your soup.
- 1 can of diced tomatoes: This adds a burst of color and sweetness. You can use plain or seasoned, depending on your taste.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the vegetables beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon of salt: Adjust to your preference, especially if your broth is salted.
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: For a little kick! You can adjust this based on your spice tolerance.
- 2 cups of chopped spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely green color and nutrition; toss it in towards the end of cooking.
How to Prepare Healthy Soup
Making this healthy soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is to pull everything together. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
First things first, grab a large pot and heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the diced onions, chopped carrots, and celery. You’ll want to sauté these for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the carrots start to soften. This step is crucial because it builds the base flavor for your soup. Just picture that lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen—heavenly!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth
Next, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Trust me, this is when your soup starts to sing! Now, pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all those lovely flavors. The broth should bubble up nicely, and you’ll see those vibrant colors come to life.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil—this is key for melding all those flavors together. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows all those beautiful veggies to soften and the flavors to deepen, creating a deliciously fragrant soup.
Step 4: Finish with Spinach
Lastly, we’re adding the star of the show—spinach! Stir in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach and give it about 5 more minutes on the heat. You’ll notice the spinach wilts down and brightens up the soup, adding a lovely green hue. Once it’s all combined and heated through, your healthy soup is ready to serve hot. Enjoy every soothing spoonful!
Nutritional Information for Healthy Soup
Before we dive into the deliciousness, it’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients you choose and the brands you use. That said, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of this healthy soup:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This soup is not just hearty and comforting; it’s also packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling energized and satisfied. So go ahead, enjoy a bowl (or two!) without any guilt!
Tips for Success
To make sure your healthy soup turns out delicious every single time, I’ve got some handy tips to share. Trust me, these little tricks will elevate your soup game and help you avoid common pitfalls!
- Prep Ahead: Before you start cooking, chop all your veggies and measure out your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, it helps you avoid forgetting an ingredient!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery properly is essential for building flavor. Take your time during this step—don’t just toss everything in at once. Let those veggies soften and develop a bit of color.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to taste your soup as it simmers! If you think it needs a little more flavor, don’t hesitate to add more thyme, salt, or pepper. Just remember to add a little at a time, so you don’t overpower the soup.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables really do make a difference! Whenever possible, opt for fresh over frozen or canned. They’ll add more vibrant flavor and nutrition to your soup.
- Experiment with Herbs: If you want to mix things up, try adding other herbs or spices. A pinch of paprika, bay leaves, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors!
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: When adding the spinach, remember it wilts quickly! Just a few minutes on the heat is all it needs. Overcooking it can turn it mushy and dull its beautiful color.
- Let It Rest: If you can, let your soup sit for a little while after cooking. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just reheat gently before serving!
By following these tips, you’ll create a healthy soup that’s not only packed with flavor but also a joy to share with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Variations of Healthy Soup
One of the best things about this healthy soup is its adaptability! You can customize it to match your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Change Up the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the carrots, celery, or spinach for other favorites! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes can add a delightful twist. Just remember to chop them to a similar size for even cooking.
- Add Beans or Lentils: For an extra protein boost, toss in some canned beans like chickpeas or kidney beans, or even lentils. They’ll make the soup heartier and even more filling!
- Spice It Up: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the veggies. For a more exotic flavor, try adding curry powder or cumin for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs! While thyme is wonderful, you could also try parsley, basil, or even dill for a fresh flavor. Just add them towards the end of cooking to keep their vibrant taste.
- Go Creamy: If you’re in the mood for a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup after cooking and return it to the pot. You can also stir in some coconut milk or a splash of cream for richness.
- Seasonal Additions: Embrace the seasons by incorporating seasonal vegetables. In fall, add butternut squash; in spring, toss in some peas or asparagus. This keeps the soup fresh and exciting all year round!
With these variations, you can create a new healthy soup every time you make it! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Enjoy the process and the flavors that come together in your kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your healthy soup properly is key to enjoying it later! After you’ve savored your first delicious bowl, let the leftovers cool down to room temperature before storing them. I usually transfer my soup into airtight containers to keep it fresh. This soup will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy it for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week!
If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’s best to use it within 3 months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheating is super simple. If you’re warming it on the stovetop, pour your soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir it occasionally, and it should be heated through in about 5-10 minutes. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors can shift a bit after freezing! You can also reheat single portions in the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to prevent splatters), and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until it’s piping hot.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your healthy soup whenever the craving strikes! It’s like having a comforting hug in a bowl, ready to warm you up at a moment’s notice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and a total cook time of 30 minutes, you can have a steaming pot of deliciousness ready in no time!
- Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with vibrant vegetables, this soup is not only filling but also loaded with vitamins and minerals to keep you energized.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite veggies or spices, making it a versatile dish that suits everyone’s taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This healthy soup stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for quick meals throughout the week.
- Full of Flavor: The blend of fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs creates a rich, comforting flavor that warms both body and soul.
- Vegan-Friendly: This soup is plant-based, making it a great choice for anyone following a vegan diet or simply looking to eat more greens.
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm soup on a chilly day, and this recipe delivers all the cozy vibes you crave.
Healthy Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and hearty soup packed with vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of chopped carrots
- 2 cups of chopped celery
- 1 cup of diced onions
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of chopped spinach
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup freezes well for later use.
- Feel free to add other vegetables of your choice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: healthy soup, nutritious soup, vegetable soup







