"Quick and Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe with Frozen Vegetables for a Healthy Meal"
#### Vegetable Soup Recipe with Frozen VegetablesIf you're looking for a nutritious and delicious meal that can be prepared in no time, then this **vegetabl……
#### Vegetable Soup Recipe with Frozen Vegetables
If you're looking for a nutritious and delicious meal that can be prepared in no time, then this **vegetable soup recipe with frozen vegetables** is perfect for you. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Using frozen vegetables saves you time and ensures that you have a variety of vegetables on hand, even when fresh produce might not be available.
#### Why Use Frozen Vegetables?
Frozen vegetables are a fantastic option for soup recipes for several reasons. First, they are often frozen at their peak ripeness, which locks in nutrients. This means you can enjoy the health benefits of vegetables that are just as good as fresh ones. Second, frozen vegetables are convenient; they require no washing, peeling, or chopping, which makes meal prep a breeze. Lastly, they are typically more affordable than fresh vegetables, especially out of season.
#### Ingredients You'll Need
To make this **vegetable soup recipe with frozen vegetables**, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and corn)
- 1 cup of frozen green beans
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup of cooked pasta or rice for added heartiness
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. **Add the Broth**: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
3. **Incorporate the Vegetables**: Add the frozen mixed vegetables and green beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. **Season the Soup**: Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. **Optional Additions**: If you want to make the soup more filling, you can add cooked pasta or rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will make the soup heartier and perfect for a complete meal.
6. **Taste and Adjust**: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
7. **Serve**: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and enjoy! You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch.
#### Conclusion
This **vegetable soup recipe with frozen vegetables** is a game changer for busy weeknights or when you're craving something warm and comforting. It's versatile, allowing you to use whatever frozen vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies into your diet. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with some crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home. So, next time you’re in need of a quick and healthy meal, remember this easy vegetable soup recipe!