Are you craving a hearty, nutritious meal that transports you straight to the rustic kitchens of Italy, without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This Weeknight Italian Vegetable Soup is your ticket to a quick, delicious dinner that will have your family begging for seconds. Packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich, comforting broth, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be both incredibly simple and mind-blowingly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add chopped zucchini and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start releasing their moisture.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop further.
- Ladle hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Mise en Place is Key: Chop all your vegetables before starting to cook, ensuring a smooth and stress-free cooking process.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing onions and developing deep flavors in the initial stages of cooking.
- Fresh Garlic Matters: Use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced for the most robust flavor.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in layers, tasting as you go to build a more complex flavor profile.
- Optional Enhancements: - Add a parmesan rind while simmering for extra depth - Serve with a drizzle of good quality olive oil - Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley just before serving
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
