Creamy Vegetable Soup

Name: Creamy Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup chopped potatoes; 1 cup diced celery; 1 cup corn kernels; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Warm up your day with this luscious Creamy Vegetable Soup, packed with nutritious veggies and a delightful blend of herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or a healthy lunch option, this soup is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness, topped with your favorite bread or croutons for added texture.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-02T14:54:11.486Z

Experience the warmth and healthiness of homemade soup with this delightful recipe.

The Benefits of Homemade Soup

Homemade soup is not just about flavor; it's a cornerstone of healthy eating. Crafting your own soup allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that every spoonful is free from preservatives and artificial additives. By using fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, you create a nutritious meal packed with vitamins and minerals that bottled soups may lack. Plus, it's an excellent way to utilize seasonal produce, reducing food waste and supporting local farmers.

Another advantage of making your own soup is the ability to tailor flavors to your liking. Whether you enjoy a hint of spice or prefer a milder taste, you can experiment with different herbs and seasonings to make it uniquely yours. This versatility makes homemade soup suitable for any culinary palate and an excellent option for family meals, accommodating various dietary needs and preferences.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Vegetable Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or homemade croutons, which add a delightful crunch and texture contrast. You could also consider accompanying it with a fresh salad for a light yet satisfying lunch. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Don't forget about garnishing! A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate your soup's presentation. For those who enjoy a little spice, a dash of chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon adds an exciting twist. You can also top the soup with grated cheese to enrich the flavors even further, making it a truly indulgent dish.

Ingredients

Vegetable Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup chopped potatoes
1 cup diced celery
1 cup corn kernels

Soup Base

4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites!

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Add broccoli, carrots, potatoes, celery, and corn to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer and Blend

Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

Finish the Soup

Stir in heavy cream, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Heat through and serve.

Serve hot with your choice of bread or croutons.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

This Creamy Vegetable Soup is loaded with nutritious ingredients that offer a variety of health benefits. Broccoli, for instance, is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and various antioxidants. It supports a healthy immune system and promotes digestive health. Carrots are another powerhouse, providing beta-carotene, which is great for eye health, along with numerous other vitamins that contribute to overall wellness.

Potatoes and corn are fantastic sources of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy throughout the day. They also contribute dietary fiber, enhancing digestion. The addition of celery offers hydration and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Finally, the herbs like thyme and basil not only add flavor but also bring their own set of health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best parts about this Creamy Vegetable Soup is its excellent storage capability. If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

When it comes to reheating, there are a few effective methods. For best results, reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming. If you're pressed for time, a microwave works well, but be sure to heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent hot spots. Adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream can revive the soup’s creamy texture if it thickens during storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.