When the weather turns chilly or you just crave a warm, nourishing meal, nothing beats a hearty bowl of vegetable soup. But what if you could make it even more flavorful and nutrient-packed with a simple twist?
Enter V8 juice—a classic vegetable juice blend that adds a vibrant depth of flavor and a boost of vitamins to this comforting dish. This vegetable soup recipe with V8 juice is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit your pantry and taste preferences.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for a wholesome meal, this soup is a delicious way to enjoy a medley of vegetables and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out.
In this post, I’ll share a detailed recipe that combines fresh vegetables with the unique tang of V8 juice to create a satisfying and healthy soup. Plus, I’ll include tips on customization, serving suggestions, and nutrition facts to help you make the most of this tasty meal.
Ready to dive into your next favorite soup? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetable soup with V8 juice is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks who want a quick, nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Using V8 juice as part of the broth provides a natural blend of tomato, carrot, celery, and other vegetable flavors that makes the soup taste rich and complex without needing hours of simmering.
It’s also incredibly versatile—great for using up whatever veggies you have on hand, and easy to make vegan or vegetarian. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins from both fresh vegetables and the juice base, making it a healthy choice for your family.
The soup stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out other fantastic options like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for even more inspiration!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup V8 vegetable juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Optional: Immersion blender if you like a creamier texture
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and green beans. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the diced zucchini and corn kernels, mixing well to combine all the vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, V8 juice, and canned tomatoes with their juices. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Add the dried thyme, basil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir again.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften perfectly.
- Optional step: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Enjoy with your favorite bread or crackers.
Tips & Variations
“Don’t be afraid to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables to keep this soup fresh and exciting all year round.”
- For a heartier soup, add cooked beans or lentils during step 5. This will boost the protein and fiber content significantly.
- Try adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce just before serving for a zingy finish.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the smoked paprika or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth and V8 juice to control your salt intake, especially if you’re watching your sodium levels.
- For a gluten-free option, this soup is naturally free of gluten, making it suitable for most dietary needs.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Protein | 4 grams |
Fat | 4 grams |
Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
Fiber | 6 grams |
Sodium | 600 mg (varies by broth/juice used) |
Vitamin A | 80% Daily Value |
Vitamin C | 40% Daily Value |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable soup with V8 juice is fantastic on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Serve with a crusty whole-grain bread or warm garlic bread for dipping.
- Add a side salad with fresh greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette to complement the soup’s warmth.
- Top with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added creaminess and flavor.
- Pair with a simple quinoa or brown rice bowl for a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
This vegetable soup recipe with V8 juice is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors that’s perfect for any day of the year. Easy to prepare, adaptable, and loaded with nutrients, it offers a comforting, nourishing meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this soup delivers on taste and health without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make it truly your own. And if you love exploring diverse vegetarian recipes, check out our other favorites like Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals or add some spice to your cooking with this Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
Happy cooking and stay nourished!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegetable Soup with V8 Juice
Description: A hearty and nutritious vegetable soup made with V8 juice for rich flavor. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal any time of the year.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups V8 vegetable juice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, and green beans; cook 5 minutes.
- Pour in V8 juice and vegetable broth; stir well.
- Add chopped tomatoes and thyme; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 20 g
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