Healthy soup recipes are like warm hugs on a chilly day, and this one is no exception! It’s packed with vibrant vegetables and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for any meal. What I love most about this nutritious and delicious soup is how quickly it comes together—just 40 minutes from start to finish! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand. I remember the first time I made this soup on a busy weeknight, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it. The rich aroma wafting through the kitchen drew everyone in, and before I knew it, we were all gathered around the table, bowls in hand, happily slurping away. Trust me, once you try this healthy soup, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
To whip up this delightful healthy soup, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients, all ready to nourish your body and warm your soul:
- 2 cups vegetable broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth for a healthier option. This serves as the soup’s flavorful base.
- 1 cup chopped carrots: Peel and dice fresh carrots into bite-sized pieces. They add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- 1 cup chopped celery: Chop celery stalks into small, even pieces. This adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup chopped onions: Dice a medium onion finely. Onions are essential for building the soup’s flavor foundation.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes (drained) for convenience. They add acidity and juiciness.
- 1 cup green beans: Trim the ends and cut green beans into 1-inch pieces. They provide a lovely texture and bright green hue.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A quick and easy way to infuse that garlicky goodness into the soup without the chopping hassle!
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: This herb adds an aromatic touch. You can also use fresh basil if you have it on hand.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season according to your preference, but start with a pinch of each and adjust as needed.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of healthy soup that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Healthy Soup Recipes
Making this healthy soup is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, nourishing bowl ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
- Heat the broth: Start by pouring 2 cups of vegetable broth into a large pot over medium heat. Give it a moment to warm up, and you’ll soon hear that comforting simmering sound!
- Sauté the veggies: Once the broth is hot, toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the veggies soften a bit. This is where your kitchen starts to smell heavenly!
- Add the tomatoes and beans: Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and green beans. Let them mingle with the sautéed veggies for another minute or so, allowing their flavors to blend beautifully.
- Season it up: Now it’s time to add that garlic powder, dried basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the veggies in those tasty seasonings. Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you!
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to deepen and the vegetables to become tender. You’ll want to check occasionally, giving it a gentle stir to keep everything happy!
- Serve hot: Once the veggies are tender and the aroma is irresistible, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can even garnish with fresh herbs if you like!
And there you have it! A warm, hearty soup that’s not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for any meal, and ready in just about 30 minutes of cooking time. Can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals!
- Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, every spoonful is a burst of flavor while also being rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Vegan Friendly: Completely plant-based, this recipe is suitable for anyone following a vegan diet, so you can feel good about what you’re serving!
- Flexible Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe for any season.
- Leftover Friendly: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or can be frozen for later, ensuring you always have a healthy meal on hand!
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your healthy soup experience, here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! You can add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on what you have in your fridge. Just chop them into similar sizes for even cooking!
- Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a little spice, consider tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing step. It adds a delightful kick!
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried basil is great, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the flavor even further. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for that extra pop!
- Use a High-Quality Broth: The broth is the backbone of your soup, so choose a good-quality vegetable broth. It really makes a difference in the overall taste, trust me!
- Serve with a Side: Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad to round out the meal. It’s the perfect combo for a cozy dinner!
These little tweaks can turn an already delicious soup into something truly remarkable. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious, healthy soup. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
With such a wholesome profile, this soup not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body. Enjoy guilt-free, knowing you’re fueling yourself with goodness!
FAQ Section
Q1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This healthy soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q2. What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
The beauty of healthy soup recipes is their flexibility! You can add any vegetables you love or have on hand. Spinach, kale, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes work wonderfully. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Q3. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can batch cook it on the weekend, portion it out, and freeze it for quick, healthy meals throughout the week. Just make sure to leave a little space in the containers for expansion when freezing!
Q4. How can I make this soup creamier?
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender after it’s cooked. Another option is to stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of plain yogurt when serving for added creaminess.
Q5. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can bring even more vibrant flavor to your soup. If you’re using fresh basil, just chop it roughly and add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its bright flavor. You might want to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, as they are less concentrated.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delicious healthy soup is super easy! First, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy those tasty leftovers!
If you want to save it for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
To reheat, you can warm it slowly on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works too – just make sure to do it in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating. Enjoy your cozy bowl of soup anytime!
Serving Suggestions
This healthy soup is a fantastic standalone dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level! I love serving it alongside a warm, crusty baguette or a slice of homemade sourdough. There’s something so satisfying about dipping that bread into the savory broth!
For a lighter option, a fresh green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully. The crunch of the veggies and the brightness of the dressing contrast perfectly with the warmth of the soup. You could also try adding a scoop of quinoa or brown rice to the soup to make it even heartier—this adds a lovely texture and some extra nutrients!
And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top right before serving; it adds a lovely pop of color and flavor that makes every bowl feel special. Enjoy your meal!
Print
Healthy Soup Recipes: 5 Steps to Cozy Nourishment
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and delicious soup perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable broth in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes and green beans to the pot.
- Season with garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup can be frozen for later use.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: healthy soup recipes
