Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to make mixed vegetable soup. This delightful and nutritious soup is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re seeking a comforting meal on a chilly day or a light starter for a dinner party. Our recipe ensures a flavorful and hearty dish that is both easy to prepare and customizable to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into the details of creating this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

To make the best mixed vegetable soup, you will need the following fresh ingredients:

• Vegetables: 2 carrots, 1 celery stalk, 1 onion, 2 potatoes, 1 zucchini, 1 bell pepper, 1 cup green beans, 1 cup peas, 1 cup corn kernels, 2 tomatoes
• Broth: 6 cups vegetable broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• Aromatics and Seasonings: 3 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste
• Optional Additions: 1 cup spinach or kale, 1 cup cooked beans (such as cannellini or chickpeas), a squeeze of lemon juice, fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, cilantro)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Vegetables

Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the carrots and potatoes. Dice the carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Trim and cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces. If using fresh peas and corn, remove them from their pods or husks, respectively. Dice the tomatoes or use a can of diced tomatoes if preferred.

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2. Sautéing Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your soup.

3. Adding Vegetables

Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the vegetables to begin softening. Then, add the zucchini, bell pepper, green beans, peas, and corn. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

4. Incorporating Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that all the vegetables are fully submerged. Add the dried thyme, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.

Cooking and Finishing Touches

5. Simmering the Soup

Let the soup simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. During this time, the flavors will meld together, creating a rich and savory broth. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.

6. Adding Optional Ingredients

If you are including spinach or kale, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to wilt them slightly. If you are adding cooked beans, you can also stir them in at this point to warm them through. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors just before serving.

7. Serving the Soup

Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This mixed vegetable soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Tips for Perfect Mixed Vegetable Soup

1. Seasoning Layers: Season your soup at different stages of cooking to build depth of flavor. Start with aromatics, then adjust seasoning after simmering.
2. Texture Balance: Ensure a mix of vegetables with varying textures. Root vegetables like potatoes and carrots provide heartiness, while zucchini and bell peppers add freshness.
3. Broth Quality: Use a high-quality vegetable broth. Homemade broth is best, but low-sodium store-bought versions are also excellent.
4. Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to substitute or add vegetables based on seasonality and availability. Consider adding mushrooms, leeks, or parsnips for a unique twist.
5. Leftover Magic: This soup stores well and often tastes better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Health Benefits of Mixed Vegetable Soup

Mixed vegetable soup is a powerhouse of nutrition. It is low in calories yet high in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. The variety of vegetables ensures a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can boost your immune system, improve digestion, and support overall health. The high fiber content promotes satiety, aiding in weight management.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious and nutritious mixed vegetable soup is straightforward with our detailed guide. This versatile recipe can be adapted to your taste and dietary needs, ensuring a satisfying meal every time. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this wholesome dish.