Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup

This Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup is a simple, nourishing dish perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a hearty, healthy meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a rich broth, this soup is as comforting as it is nutritious. It’s a versatile recipe that you can adjust to suit your taste or make with the veggies you have on hand.

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Ingredients

• 2/3 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups fat-free broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
• 1 1/2 cups diced green cabbage
• 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup diced zucchini

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   • Spray a large saucepan with nonstick cooking spray and heat over low-medium heat.
   • Add the sliced carrots, diced onions, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma.
2. Build the Base
   • Pour in the broth of your choice (beef, chicken, or vegetable) and stir to combine.
   • Add the green cabbage, green beans, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and salt. Mix well and bring the soup to a boil.
3. Simmer the Soup
   • Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan and let the soup cook for about 15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and flavors meld together.
4. Add the Zucchini
   • Stir in the diced zucchini and let the soup simmer uncovered for an additional 3-4 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Tips for Success

• Custom Veggies: Feel free to swap in or add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, corn, or potatoes to suit your taste.
• Boost the Flavor: For a deeper flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of smoked paprika, or a bay leaf while simmering.
• Protein Boost: Toss in cooked beans like chickpeas or cannellini beans, or add shredded chicken for extra protein.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth is gluten-free if needed.

This vegetable soup is a fantastic go-to recipe for busy nights, meal prepping, or warming up after a long day. Its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a family favorite!