When it comes to nourishing, hearty meals that bring comfort and vibrant flavors to your table, the A.J. Spurs Vegetable Soup recipe stands out as a timeless favorite.
This vegetable-packed soup is perfect for those cozy evenings when you crave something warm, wholesome, and full of natural goodness. Brimming with fresh, colorful vegetables and seasoned to perfection, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand. The balance of textures and flavors creates a satisfying experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to boost your daily vegetable intake in a single bowl. Let’s dive into the details of this wonderful vegetable soup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This A.J. Spurs Vegetable Soup recipe offers numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice for any meal:
- Nutritious and wholesome: Packed with a variety of vegetables, it’s loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Easy to prepare: Simple steps and accessible ingredients mean you can whip it up quickly on busy days.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or seasonal produce to keep things fresh.
- Comforting and satisfying: The warm broth and tender veggies make it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or anytime you need a nutritious pick-me-up.
- Great for meal prep: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy it all week long.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Optional: Immersion blender (if you prefer a smoother texture)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while retaining a bit of crunch.
- Add the diced potatoes, zucchini, green beans, and corn kernels. Stir well to combine all the vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the greens to wilt without overcooking.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika if desired. For a touch of brightness, add the fresh lemon juice and stir well.
- Remove the pot from heat. If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup to your desired consistency.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
“To make this vegetable soup your own, feel free to experiment with different veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, or bell peppers. Adding a can of chickpeas or cooked lentils can also boost protein and texture!”
- For a heartier soup: Add cooked quinoa, barley, or your favorite ancient grain towards the end of the cooking time.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of red chili flakes or substitute smoked paprika with chipotle powder for a smoky heat. For inspiration, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream just before serving for a rich and velvety finish.
- Use fresh herbs: If available, fresh thyme, oregano, or basil can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Slow cooker option: Brown the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a convenient, hands-off meal.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Protein | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 50% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. For a light lunch, serve it with a crisp green salad or crusty whole-grain bread for dipping.
If you want to make it a complete meal, complement it with a side of Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals or a warm bowl of 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious for extra protein and fiber.
For a cozy dinner option, top the soup with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
Conclusion
The A.J. Spurs Vegetable Soup recipe is a shining example of how simple, fresh ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nutritious and deeply satisfying.
Its vibrant medley of vegetables, aromatic herbs, and comforting broth make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether you’re seeking a quick weekday meal or a leisurely weekend treat.
Not only is this soup a feast for your taste buds, but it also nourishes your body with essential vitamins and minerals. Its versatility means you can easily adapt it based on what’s in season or your pantry staples.
For more fantastic plant-based recipes that celebrate wholesome ingredients, be sure to explore our collection such as A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
Enjoy crafting this delightful soup and savor the warmth and health it brings to your table!
📖 Recipe Card: A.J. Spurs Vegetable Soup
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetable soup packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in carrots and celery, cook for 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, zucchini, and green beans.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme and basil.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 22 g
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