Meatless Vegetable Soup
A hearty and flavorful meatless vegetable soup packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and rice, perfect for a comforting, nutritious meal suitable for vegetarians and vegetable lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice all vegetables very small.
- Sauté celery, onion, carrots, and green pepper in butter for 15 minutes.
- Add cabbage and cook for 15 minutes longer.
- Add tomato juice, water, salt, pepper, thyme, basil, parsley, and cooked rice.
- Cook the mixture for 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also substitute or add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans based on your preference. If you want a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. For a heartier soup, try adding beans or lentils as a protein source, aligning with vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatless vegetable soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Supreme Garden Bean Salad for a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or fresh herbs on top before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe container, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatless Vegetable Soup contains roughly 740 calories, with 21g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (175% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (164% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1992mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this vegetable soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. Alternatively, you can sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings gradually to find the right level of heat for your palate.
What can I use instead of rice?
If you want to substitute rice, consider using quinoa or barley for a different texture. Both options provide additional nutrients and complement the soup well. If you're looking for a grain-free option, try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes instead.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).