Hearty Vegetable Noodle Soup

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Hearty Vegetable Noodle Soup: A Bowl of Comfort

Introduction

This Hearty Vegetable Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender noodles, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a wholesome and satisfying meal, this soup is easy to prepare and loved by everyone. It’s a one-pot wonder that nourishes both body and soul!

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups egg noodles (or your favorite noodles)
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Preparation Tips

  1. Use Fresh Vegetables: Opt for fresh, seasonal veggies for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Cook Noodles Separately: To prevent soggy noodles, cook them separately and add them to the soup before serving.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth as it cooks and adjust the herbs and spices to your preference.
  4. Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, tofu, or beans for a heartier meal.
  5. Storage Tip: Store noodles separately if saving leftovers to maintain their texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

  1. Add the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

  1. While the soup simmers, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Add the cooked noodles to the pot of soup or portion them into individual bowls before ladling the soup over them.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Description

This Hearty Vegetable Noodle Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. The medley of vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tender noodles creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re under the weather or simply craving comfort, this soup will hit the spot!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 210
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes! Substitute with gluten-free noodles or even rice noodles for a gluten-free version.

2. Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! It’s naturally vegan if you use egg-free noodles and vegetable broth.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup and noodles separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze it without the noodles to maintain their texture. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

5. What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, kale, or sweet corn for extra variety.

Recommendations

  1. Serve with Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls for a complete meal.
  2. Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
  3. Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick, comforting meals on busy days.

Conclusion

This Hearty Vegetable Noodle Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its delicious blend of vegetables, noodles, and herbs, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to please. Easy to make and packed with nutrients, it’s the perfect dish for families, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home.

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