"Venus De Milo" Style Soup
Venus De Milo Style Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, onions, tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and pasta in a savory broth. Its rich taste and comforting texture make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of savory and vegetable flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the ground beef and chopped onion in a large pan until browned.
- Add water, onion soup mix, canned tomatoes, and mixed vegetables to the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add orzo or tiny pasta and cook until the pasta is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding kidney beans or chickpeas along with the mixed vegetables. If you want a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. To enhance the flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of water, or try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Venus De Milo Style Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light Pasta Salad Surprise to balance the hearty flavors of the soup.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Venus De Milo" Style Soup contains roughly 203 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (165% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% 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 make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup is perfect for making in advance! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. If you plan to freeze it, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. If using a lean protein, be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
How do I adjust the soup for a vegetarian version?
To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the ground beef and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to add depth and flavor, making it a hearty meal without meat.
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).