One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is a hearty and wholesome meal that warms the soul. Packed with vibrant vegetables and enriched with a silky, creamy texture, it's perfect for chilly days or a cozy family gathering. Easy to make and clean up, this recipe brings together fresh flavors in a delightful mix that's both satisfying and nutritious.
This soup has become a favorite in our household, full of healthy ingredients and flavor...
Nutritional Benefits
This One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Each serving is filled with a variety of vegetables that provide a significant source of vitamins and minerals. Carrots, for example, are rich in beta-carotene, which is great for eye health, while spinach offers iron and antioxidants, promoting overall wellness. By incorporating these vibrant ingredients, this soup supports a balanced diet and helps you stay nourished during the colder months.
Moreover, the use of vegetable broth as a base ensures that you’re consuming fewer calories while still indulging in robust flavors. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. The addition of heavy cream gives it a luxurious texture, so you don’t have to compromise on comfort even in a healthy meal.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best features of this soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Substitute any vegetables you love or need to use up — from peas to sweet potatoes, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability means you can keep the recipe fresh every time you make it, ensuring that no two batches are ever the same.
You can also adapt the creaminess of the soup based on your dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider replacing heavy cream with a plant-based cream or milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. It stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to a week, and the flavors only deepen over time, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking. Simply prepare a big pot on a weekend and portion it out for your lunches or dinners throughout the week. Not only does it save you cooking time on busy nights, but it also ensures you always have a hearty meal ready to go.
You can also freeze leftovers for future enjoyment. Just make sure to leave a little room in the containers for the soup to expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat — it makes for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
Base
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
These fresh vegetables create the perfect base for a creamy soup.
Steps
Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Add remaining vegetables
Stir in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes.
Pour in broth
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Finish with cream
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy warm!
Serve hot with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing your One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup, the best approach is to let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation, keeping your soup fresh for longer. Store the soup in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within the next few days, or freeze it for longer storage.
For freezing, consider using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to keep the soup from freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and type of soup to stay organized and make meal planning simpler.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or buttery garlic toast for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad to add a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup. For a heartier meal, consider adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to the soup before serving.
Garnishing the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can elevate its presentation and flavor. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil adds a finishing touch that enhances the overall dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
This One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is a hearty and wholesome meal that warms the soul. Packed with vibrant vegetables and enriched with a silky, creamy texture, it's perfect for chilly days or a cozy family gathering. Easy to make and clean up, this recipe brings together fresh flavors in a delightful mix that's both satisfying and nutritious.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
Base
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Stir in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes.
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy warm!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g