Servings
4–6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 450 g)
- 1 medium zucchini, diced (about 250 g)
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup peas
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup corn kernels
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
Wash, peel, and cut all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add:
- Onion
- Garlic (if using)
Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add:
- Carrot
- Potatoes
- Zucchini
Stir for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Broth
Pour in broth and add:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Turmeric
- Bay leaf
Bring to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer
Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 6: Finish
Remove bay leaf.
Add parsley and stir.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with bread, crackers, or a fresh salad.
Approximate Nutrition Information
Per serving (assuming 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120–150 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg* |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 70% DV |
| Vitamin C | 35% DV |
*Depends on the broth used.
Allergen Information
This basic soup is generally:
✅ Dairy-free
✅ Egg-free
✅ Nut-free
✅ Peanut-free
✅ Soy-free (if broth is soy-free)
✅ Vegan (when vegetable broth is used)
✅ Gluten-free (if gluten-free broth is used)
Potential allergens may come from:
- Store-bought broth
- Bouillon cubes
- Added cream or cheese
Always check labels if cooking for someone with allergies.
Storage
Refrigerator
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps for 3–4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Can I blend this soup?
Yes. Blend partially for a thicker texture or fully for a creamy soup.
Q2: Can I add meat?
Yes. Chicken, turkey, beef, or sausage work well.
Q3: How can I make it creamier?
Add:
- ½ cup cream
- Coconut milk
- Blended potatoes
Q4: Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and extra vitamin A.
Q5: Why is my soup too thick?
Add more broth or water while reheating.
Q6: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes.
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours
- Or HIGH for 3–4 hours
Q7: Is this soup healthy?
Generally yes. It is:
- Low in calories
- Rich in fiber
- Packed with vegetables
- Good source of vitamins A and C
Q8: What can I serve with it?
- Crusty bread
- Garlic toast
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Green salad
Q9: Can children eat this soup?
Yes. It’s mild and nutritious. For younger children, mash or blend the vegetables.
Q10: How can I increase the protein?
Add:
- Chicken
- White beans
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
- Tofu
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Home-style vegetable soup
Calories: ~120–150 per serving
