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### **Ingredients for the Best Basic Veggie Soup**
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**
– **1 large onion**, diced
– **3 cloves garlic**, minced
– **2 medium carrots**, peeled and diced
– **2 celery stalks**, diced
– **2 medium potatoes**, peeled and cubed (optional for added heartiness)
– **1 zucchini**, diced (optional)
– **1 cup green beans**, chopped (optional)
– **6 cups vegetable broth** (or chicken broth for added protein)
– **1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes** (optional for added flavor)
– **1 teaspoon dried thyme**
– **1 teaspoon dried basil**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1-2 cups spinach or kale** (optional, for added greens)
– **Fresh herbs** (parsley, cilantro, or dill for garnish)
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### **How to Make the Best Basic Veggie Soup**
#### **Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables**
Start by heating **olive oil** in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the **onion** and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the **garlic** and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally. This creates the aromatic base for your soup.
#### **Step 2: Add the Harder Vegetables**
Next, add the **carrots**, **celery**, and **potatoes** (if using) to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. This step helps enhance the flavors.
#### **Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes**
Pour in the **vegetable broth** (or chicken broth) and **diced tomatoes** (if using). Stir to combine everything, ensuring that the vegetables are well-coated with the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
#### **Step 4: Add the Greens and Seasoning**
Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the **zucchini**, **green beans**, and **spinach or kale** (if using). Add the **dried thyme**, **dried basil**, **salt**, and **pepper** to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the greens to wilt.
#### **Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning**
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a bit of brightness or some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
#### **Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like **parsley**, **cilantro**, or **dill**. This soup can be enjoyed as-is or paired with a slice of whole-grain bread for a more filling meal.
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### **Tips for Customizing Your Veggie Soup**
The beauty of this soup is that you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Here are a few tips for making it your own:
1. **Add Beans or Lentils for Protein**: If you want to make the soup more filling and add some plant-based protein, try adding **canned beans** (like kidney beans, chickpeas, or white beans) or **lentils**. These ingredients not only add texture but also increase the nutritional value of the soup.
2. **Switch Up the Veggies**: If you have specific vegetables you love or ones that are in season, feel free to swap them in. For example, **butternut squash**, **parsnips**, **sweet potatoes**, or **leeks** are excellent additions to this basic recipe.
3. **Spice It Up**: For extra flavor, add spices such as **turmeric**, **cumin**, or **paprika**. A little bit of **ginger** can also add a refreshing kick.
4. **Use Bone Broth for Added Nutrition**: If you want to add more protein and nutrients to your soup, try using **bone broth** instead of regular vegetable broth. This will add richness and an extra dose of collagen, which is great for your joints and skin.
5. **Make It Creamy**: For a creamy version of the soup, blend half of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender and return it to the pot. You can also add a splash of **coconut milk** or **almond milk** for a dairy-free, creamy texture.
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### **Why This Veggie Soup Works for Weight Maintenance**
This soup is a perfect ally in maintaining a healthy weight because it’s nutrient-dense but low in calories. The high fiber content in the vegetables helps with satiety, meaning you feel full for longer and are less likely to snack on unhealthy foods. Additionally, the soup’s high water content keeps you hydrated and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
By making this veggie soup a part of your meal routine, you’re giving your body a variety of vitamins and minerals without unnecessary calories. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and can be eaten as a meal on its own or paired with other healthy options.
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### **Conclusion**
The **best basic veggie soup** is more than just a healthy, flavorful meal—it’s a tool for **maintaining a healthy weight**. With its customizable ingredients, low calorie content, and rich nutritional profile, it’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to eat healthier and stay satisfied. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a satisfying snack, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
By adding or leaving out vegetables to suit your taste, you’ll have a versatile recipe that fits your personal preferences and supports your health goals. So, grab your pot and start making this comforting, nourishing veggie soup today! Your body will thank you.
