Vegetable Soup with Veggies

This hearty vegetable soup has become my go-to recipe whenever I need a comforting meal packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables swimming in a flavorful broth creates a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.

I first made this soup when I was feeling under the weather, and it was exactly what I needed to feel better. Now it appears on our dinner table at least twice a month during colder months because everyone in my family requests it.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and adds a rich undertone to the broth
• Yellow onion and celery: Create the aromatic foundation of any good soup
• Garlic cloves: Add essential flavor; use fresh for the best taste
• Kosher salt and black pepper: The coarse varieties provide better flavor control
• Potato: Adds heartiness and helps thicken the soup slightly
• Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and beautiful color
• Corn, peas, and green beans: Offer variety in texture and nutrition
• Vine tomatoes: Provide acidity and depth; choose ripe ones for the best flavor
• Chicken broth: Forms the savory base; use homemade if possible for exceptional taste
• V8 juice: The secret ingredient that adds complex tomato flavor and extra vitamins

Step-by-Step Instructions

Build the Flavor Base:

Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, celery, and minced garlic, then sauté for 4-5 minutes until they become translucent. This crucial first step builds the foundation of flavor for your entire soup, so be patient and let the aromatics release their oils.

Combine Everything:

Add all remaining ingredients to the pot: potatoes, carrots, corn, peas, green beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and V8 juice. Stir well to combine everything evenly. The variety of vegetables will create a beautiful colorful mixture.

Simmer to Perfection:

Bring the soup to a boil, then immediately reduce to a simmer. Allow it to cook gently for 30 minutes, uncovered. This timing perfectly softens the vegetables while maintaining their individual textures. The potatoes and carrots will become tender while the peas and corn retain some pleasant bite.

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The V8 juice is truly the magical ingredient in this soup. I discovered this trick from my grandmother who always added it to her vegetable soups. It provides a depth of flavor that would otherwise require hours of simmering to achieve.

Make It Your Own

This vegetable soup serves as a wonderful template that you can customize based on seasons or preferences. In summer, I often add zucchini and yellow squash. In fall, butternut squash and kale make delicious additions. Winter calls for hearty root vegetables like parsnips and turnips. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility while maintaining that comforting essence.

Storage and Leftovers

This soup actually improves with time as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The soup will thicken slightly when chilled which many people enjoy, but you can always add a splash of broth when reheating if you prefer a thinner consistency. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

While this soup is certainly hearty enough to serve as a main course with some crusty bread on the side, it also pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic comfort food combination. For a lighter meal, serve smaller portions with a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. When I entertain, I like to set up a toppings bar with fresh herbs, grated cheese, croutons, and a dollop of sour cream to let guests customize their bowls.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this dish suitable for vegetarians.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely, you can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to customize this soup to your liking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead and reheat over the stove or in the microwave.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while simmering to give it more heat.