There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially one that’s packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. Ally Parsons’ Vegetable Soup recipe from Dryden, Virginia, is a beloved local favorite that combines simplicity with heartwarming taste.
This recipe reflects the essence of farm-to-table freshness, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a nourishing, cozy meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, Ally’s method guarantees a delicious, hearty soup that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable.
Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up seasonal vegetables and enjoy a healthy, plant-based dish that the whole family will love.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through every step of making this classic vegetable soup, share useful tips and variations, and even offer some serving suggestions. Get ready to bring a slice of Dryden’s culinary charm right to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetable soup stands out because it’s both nutritious and flavorful, relying on fresh ingredients rather than heavy creams or processed additives. It’s vegan-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and packed with vitamins and fiber from a variety of garden-fresh vegetables.
Ally Parsons’ recipe is also incredibly versatile — you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add beans for extra protein. The soup’s broth is rich and savory, thanks to a perfect blend of herbs and spices, making it a satisfying meal on its own or a delightful starter.
Best of all, it’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. You’ll appreciate how well it freezes too, making future lunches or dinners a breeze!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, zucchini, green beans, and corn kernels. Mix well to combine all vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine.
- Add dried thyme, dried basil, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer the soup gently for 25-30 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf, then season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
“For a heartier version, add cooked beans or lentils in step 4. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to suit your taste.”
Feel free to use whatever vegetables are in season or what you have on hand. Kale or spinach can be stirred in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
If you prefer a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and then mix it back in. This creates a lovely creamy consistency without any cream.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce when seasoning.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1.5 cups) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Protein | 4 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Sodium | 400 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a warm crusty bread or a side of garlic toast for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a light lunch or dinner.
For a complete meal, add a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice on the side. If you’re looking for something more filling, try pairing it with Cheeseless Vegetarian Lasagna or a hearty Vegetarian Lentil Burger.
For more delicious plant-based recipes, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.
Conclusion
Ally Parsons’ Vegetable Soup from Dryden, Virginia, is a timeless recipe that brings comfort, nutrition, and deliciousness all in one pot. It’s easy to prepare, flexible with ingredients, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal any day of the year.
Whether you’re seeking a light lunch, a starter for dinner, or a hearty bowl to warm you on a cold night, this soup delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s a wonderful gateway to exploring more vegetarian recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal produce.
Don’t forget to try out some other tasty options like the Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals or the Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to keep your menu exciting and nutritious.
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, homemade vegetable soup!
📖 Recipe Card: Ally Parsons Vegetable Soup
Description: A hearty and wholesome vegetable soup recipe from Dryden, Virginia. Perfect for a comforting meal packed with fresh vegetables and rich flavors.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 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, and potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in zucchini, green beans, and diced tomatoes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 22 g
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