As the leaves start to turn and the air takes on a crisp chill, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Hearty Vegetable Soup. This nutritious and vibrant dish is perfect for a family meal, bringing everyone together around the table. Imagine the medley of fresh vegetables and beans, simmered to perfection and topped with freshly chopped herbs – each spoonful is like a cozy embrace, filled with love and nourishment. It’s the ideal recipe for a cool autumn evening or a Sunday lunch shared with loved ones. Let’s create a beautiful memory in your kitchen with this delightful soup.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, green beans, corn, and kidney beans. Pour in the vegetable broth and mix well.
- Add the bay leaves and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Helpful Tips
- For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the beans.
- Add a splash of lemon juice before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
- If you don’t have vegetable broth, water can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be less rich.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Pairings
This Hearty Vegetable Soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad. For a delightful drink, try serving it with a glass of crisp white wine or a cup of spiced apple cider for a seasonal touch.
Conclusion:
We hope you enjoy this wonderful Hearty Vegetable Soup with your family. Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag @Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback, so please leave a comment on our website at www.zynahz.com. Stay updated with our latest recipes by subscribing to our newsletter and follow us on social media for more inspiration in the kitchen. Happy cooking!