Hearty Vegetable Soup

Quick Description

A warm, comforting, and nourishing vegetable soup packed with a variety of veggies and legumes. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

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Servings & Timing

• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

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Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup cooked beans or chickpeas
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup cooked pasta, rice, or barley for added heartiness

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics – In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables – Add carrots, celery, bell pepper, zucchini, and cabbage. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Liquid & Seasoning – Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer – Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Add Greens & Optional Grains – Stir in spinach or kale and optional pasta/rice/barley. Cook for another 5 minutes until greens are wilted.
6. Serve – Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot. Optional: serve with crusty bread.

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Serving Suggestions

• Top with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve with a slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread.
• Perfect for meal prep: store in individual containers for easy lunches.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

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Tips & Variations

• Swap vegetables based on season or preference: sweet potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms work well.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving to brighten the flavor.
• For a creamier version, blend half of the soup and stir back in.