Embarking on a healthy eating journey doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or satisfaction. One of the best ways to nourish your body while keeping calories in check is with a wholesome, hearty vegetable soup.
This diet vegetable soup recipe is packed with fresh, nutrient-dense vegetables, delivering a comforting yet light meal perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and fits seamlessly into any diet plan aimed at weight loss or improved wellness.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through creating a delicious bowl of soup that warms the soul without the extra calories. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate a variety of veggies into your daily routine, boosting your intake of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Ready to simmer up some health and happiness? Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This diet vegetable soup stands out for its simplicity and robust flavor. Unlike many diet dishes that feel bland or unsatisfying, this soup is bursting with fresh herbs and a medley of vegetables that create a rich and savory broth.
It’s naturally low in calories and fat, making it ideal for anyone watching their weight without compromising on taste.
Moreover, the recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, making it a budget-friendly and convenient option.
It also freezes beautifully, so you can prepare a big batch and enjoy healthy meals all week long.
Finally, this soup supports digestive health thanks to its high fiber content and is free from processed ingredients and added sugars. It’s a true win-win for your palate and your body!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned, no salt added)
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional and minimal)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in your large pot. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Introduce the carrots and celery to the pot. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the zucchini, green beans, and chopped tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season the soup with dried thyme, dried basil, ground black pepper, and salt if using. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the greens wilt down.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped herbs if desired.
Tips & Variations
“Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite vegetables! This soup is very forgiving and takes kindly to swaps and additions.”
Here are some ways to customize your diet vegetable soup:
- Add beans or lentils: For extra protein and fiber, toss in canned chickpeas or red lentils during the simmering stage.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a warming kick.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh thyme or basil, add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a vibrant, fresh flavor.
- Make it creamy: Blend a portion of the soup with a splash of unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy texture without the added calories.
- Try different greens: Swap spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens based on your preference and availability.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1.5 cups) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 17 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sodium | 350 mg (varies with broth) |
Vitamin A | 70% DV |
Vitamin C | 45% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This diet vegetable soup is satisfying on its own or as part of a larger meal. Try pairing it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete lunch or dinner.
For a heartier option, serve alongside a small portion of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. You can also add a dollop of low-fat yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an added boost of flavor and nutrients.
If you enjoy this soup, you might want to explore other wholesome recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or add some exciting spice with our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
Conclusion
Making a healthy lifestyle change can start with something as simple as a bowl of nourishing vegetable soup. This diet vegetable soup recipe offers a balanced blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients that support weight management and overall wellness.
It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan.
By focusing on fresh, whole ingredients and simple seasoning, this soup proves that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. Plus, its flexibility allows you to enjoy it year-round with seasonal vegetable swaps.
For more delicious and healthful meal ideas, be sure to visit our collection of Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals and keep your kitchen vibrant and exciting while staying on track!
📖 Recipe Card: Diet Vegetable Soup
Description: A light and healthy vegetable soup perfect for weight management. Packed with fresh veggies and low in calories.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add carrots and celery; 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 20 minutes.
- Add kale or spinach and cook for 5 more minutes.
- 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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