Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable soup is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients, offering a medley of textures and flavors. The blend of tomatoes, corn, green beans, celery, and potatoes creates a hearty base, while the seasoned chicken broth adds depth and richness. Ready in under 45 minutes, it's an ideal choice for a quick and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 2 stalks celery, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

• 1 large potato, peeled and diced

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 1 cup corn

• 1 cup peas

• 1 cup green beans, chopped

• 2 vine tomatoes, diced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups V-8 juice

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are translucent.

2. Add the diced potato, sliced carrots, corn, peas, chopped green beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and V-8 juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the V-8 juice is 100% vegetable juice.

• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a richer soup.

• Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked lentils or beans for added protein.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

How big should I cut the vegetables?

Aim for bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch in size, to ensure even cooking and easy consumption.

Can I use canned or frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables with canned or frozen ones. Just be sure to drain and rinse canned vegetables before adding them to the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can sauté the vegetables in a pan first, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Certainly! Adding cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage can enhance the flavor and make the soup more filling.

How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, then stir it back into the pot.

Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or beef broth for a heartier flavor.

Is this soup spicy?

The recipe as written is not spicy. However, you can add spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes to suit your taste.

Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?

Yes, adding cooked pasta or rice can make the soup more substantial. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

This hearty vegetable soup is a versatile and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe fits the bill. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it's sure to become a family favorite.