Vegetable Soup With Rice Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially when it’s loaded with wholesome rice and fresh vegetables. This vegetable soup with rice recipe is not only hearty and nutritious but also wonderfully versatile, making it a perfect meal for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a soothing dish to warm you on chilly days, this soup hits all the right notes. The combination of tender vegetables, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice creates a soul-satisfying bowl that’s both filling and healthy.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through an easy method to prepare this delicious soup from scratch, highlighting simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Plus, you’ll find tips and variations to customize it to your taste and pantry availability.

If you love wholesome, plant-based meals, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, don’t forget to check out some of our other fantastic vegetarian recipes linked below to keep your meal planning exciting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable soup with rice offers a perfect balance of nutrition and flavor. Here’s why it stands out:

• Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, it’s beginner-friendly.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with vegetables and fiber-rich rice, making it a wholesome meal.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with whatever veggies you have on hand or prefer.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and seasonal produce for an affordable meal.
• Comforting and warming: Perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice (washed and drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky in the soup.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In your soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Pour in liquids and seasonings: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Cook the rice: Once boiling, add the rinsed rice to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
6. Add remaining vegetables: After 15 minutes, add the chopped zucchini and green beans. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Season the soup: Taste the soup, then add salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick for your liking, add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

“Don’t hesitate to get creative with your vegetable choices! This soup is a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge.”

• Use different rice: Swap white rice for brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a different texture and extra nutrients. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Try fresh herbs: If you have fresh thyme or oregano, add them near the end of cooking for a brighter flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of homemade chili powder to give your soup a gentle kick.
• Boost protein: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for an extra protein boost, making it more filling.
• Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable soup with rice is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Serve with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or a warm soft gluten-free vegan bread for dipping.
• Add a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
• Enjoy alongside a protein-rich vegan main like a lentil loaf or chickpea patties for a heartier spread.
• Try it as a starter before a flavorful meal such as veg red curry or a savory cheeseless vegetarian lasagna.

Conclusion

This vegetable soup with rice recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a nourishing and comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of vibrant flavors.

The inclusion of rice makes it more substantial, while the medley of vegetables ensures you get a wholesome dose of vitamins and minerals. It’s a fantastic go-to recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave a warm, healthy bowl of goodness.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegetarian recipes to keep your kitchen exciting. If you loved this, you might also enjoy our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or dive into wholesome grains with our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking!

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