Life-Changing Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 medium leek, white and light green parts sliced (about 1 cup / 150g)
• 3 stalks celery, chopped (about 1 cup / 120g)
• 2 medium carrots, diced (about 1 cup / 150g)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, cubed (about 500g / 1.1 lbs)
• 1 medium head broccoli, cut into florets (about 300g / 10 oz)
• 30g (1 oz) thin noodles or small pasta
• 6-8 cups water (1.5-2 liters)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
• Fresh dill, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

Base Preparation

1. Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced leek, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add root vegetables: Incorporate the chopped celery and diced carrots into the pot. Stir the vegetables occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
3. Include bell pepper: Add the chopped red bell pepper to the mixture and sauté for 3-5 minutes until it begins to soften. The pepper adds sweetness and vibrant color to the soup base.
4. Garlic infusion: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can create a bitter taste.

Building the Soup

5. Add potatoes and liquid: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with enough water to cover all ingredients by about 2 inches (approximately 6-8 cups). The potatoes will provide substance and help thicken the broth naturally.
6. Season and simmer: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
7. Incorporate broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and continue cooking over medium heat for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.

Final Assembly

8. Cook the noodles: Add the thin noodles to the soup and cook according to package directions, typically 3-5 minutes for thin varieties. The noodles will absorb some broth and add heartiness to the soup.
9. Fresh herb finish: Remove from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley and dill. These herbs add brightness and essential nutrients while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
10. Final seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Time and Serving Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 bowls
Serving Size: 1½ cups per portion

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 145
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin C: 85% DV
• Vitamin A: 110% DV