Disgustingly Easy Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Oh, there’s just nothing like a big bowl of soup on a chilly day, is there? Seriously, when the wind’s howling and the snow’s coming down (or, let’s be real, it’s just kinda drizzly and gray), I crave something warm and comforting. And that’s where this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe comes in! It’s SO easy to throw together, and it’s actually good for you – packed with all sorts of healthy veggies. I swear, I feel like I’m giving my body a big hug from the inside out when I eat this.

This recipe is seriously a lifesaver on busy weeknights. You can chop the veggies ahead of time, and then it’s just a matter of tossing everything in a pot and letting it simmer. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies you’ve got hanging out in the fridge. Trust me, you’re gonna love how simple and satisfying this soup is. It’s become a total staple in my house, and I bet it will in yours too!

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Okay, so why am I so obsessed with this soup? Let me tell you:

Quick and Easy to Make

Seriously, this is a dump-and-go kinda deal. Chop some veggies, toss ’em in a pot, and let it simmer. Dinner’s ready in under an hour – even faster if you prep the veggies ahead of time!

Packed with Flavor

The combo of thyme, rosemary, and all those yummy veggies? *Chef’s kiss!* It’s a flavor explosion in every spoonful. My favorite part is the slight sweetness from the carrots and sweet potatoes.

Healthy and Nutritious

We’re talking vitamins, fiber, and all sorts of good stuff. You’re basically eating a rainbow of vegetables. It’s like a guilt-free way to indulge in something totally comforting.

Vegan-Friendly

Yep, that’s right! This soup is totally vegan, so everyone can enjoy it. And honestly, you won’t even miss the meat. It’s hearty and satisfying all on its own.

Ingredients for Your Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Alright, let’s talk ingredients! This Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe is super flexible, but here’s what I usually throw in. Don’t worry if you don’t have *exactly* everything – just use what you’ve got! The key is good, fresh veggies.

• 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing, duh!
• 1 onion, chopped – yellow or white, whatever you prefer.
• 2 carrots, chopped – adds a little sweetness.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – for that classic soup base flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – because everything’s better with garlic, right?
• 1 tsp dried thyme – adds a lovely earthy flavor.
• ½ tsp dried rosemary – a little goes a long way, but it smells divine!
• 4 cups vegetable broth – low sodium is always a good idea.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained – don’t drain ’em! We want that juice.
• 1 cup chopped potatoes – I like Yukon gold, but Russets work too.
• 1 cup chopped sweet potatoes – for extra sweetness and color!
• 1 cup chopped kale – adds a healthy boost.
• Salt and pepper to taste – don’t be shy!

How to Make Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, ready to get cooking? Don’t worry, this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe is super simple. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness in no time!

Sauté the Aromatics

First, grab a large pot (I love my Dutch oven for this!). Heat that olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook ’em until they’re softened – about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to be translucent and the carrots to be tender. Stir them occasionally, so they don’t burn!

Add Herbs and Spices

Next, add your minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot. Cook for just one minute more, stirring constantly. Careful, garlic burns easily! You’ll know it’s ready when you can really smell those herbs – yum!

Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes

Now, pour in your vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain!). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This lets all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Add Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Time for the hearty stuff! Add your chopped potatoes and sweet potatoes to the pot. Cover it again and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

Stir in Kale

Stir in your chopped kale. Cook until it’s wilted – usually about 5 minutes. Kale can be a little tough, so make sure it’s tender enough for your liking.

Season and Serve

Finally, season your Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to add a generous pinch of each! Give it a good stir, and then ladle it into bowls. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Want to take your Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe from good to *amazing*? Here are a few of my go-to tips:

Don’t Overcook the Vegetables

Seriously, nobody wants mushy veggies! Keep an eye on ’em, especially the potatoes and sweet potatoes. You want them tender, but still with a little bite. Overcooked veggies just turn to blah.

Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste

Salt and pepper are your friends! Taste as you go and don’t be afraid to add more until it’s *just right* for you. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so trust yours!

Use Fresh Herbs

If you’ve got ’em, flaunt ’em! Fresh thyme and rosemary will seriously elevate the flavor of this soup. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end too – so pretty!

Consider Adding a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes

Want a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth that’s just perfect on a cold day. Start with a small amount – you can always add more!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Okay, so maybe you’re missing an ingredient or just wanna switch things up? No problem! This Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe is super adaptable. Here are a few ideas:

Vegetable Broth

Out of veggie broth? No sweat! Chicken broth works great too, and it’ll give your soup a slightly richer, more savory flavor. Just keep in mind it won’t be vegan anymore!

Kale

Not a kale fan? I get it! Spinach or other leafy greens like Swiss chard are awesome substitutes. They’ll wilt down even faster than kale, so keep an eye on ’em.

Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes

Feeling adventurous? Try adding other root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even butternut squash. They’ll add a unique sweetness and earthiness to your Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe. Yum!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Got questions about my Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe? I bet you do! Here are some of the most common things people ask me:

Can I freeze this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! This soup freezes like a dream. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge or gently reheat it from frozen on the stovetop. You might need to add a little extra broth if it seems too thick after thawing.

How long does this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe last in the refrigerator?

This Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe will happily hang out in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. It actually tastes even better the next day, after all those flavors have had a chance to really meld together! Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s nice and hot.

Can I add meat to this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe?

Sure thing! If you’re not strictly vegan, feel free to add some cooked chicken, sausage, or even bacon to this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe. I like adding shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein boost. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.

Is this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe gluten-free?

Yep, as written, this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe is totally gluten-free! But, always double-check the labels on your vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to be extra sure. Some brands might sneak in hidden gluten. If you’re super sensitive, using homemade broth is always the safest bet.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Okay, so you’ve got a big pot of this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe… now what? Here are a few of my favorite things to serve alongside it:

Crusty Bread

Seriously, you NEED some crusty bread for dipping into that delicious broth. I love a good sourdough or baguette. Toasted or not, it’s all good!

Side Salad

Want to make it a full meal? A simple side salad is the perfect complement to this soup. Something with a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the soup perfectly.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Okay, hear me out… a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup are a classic for a reason! And this Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe is just as good (if not better!) with a gooey, cheesy sandwich. Trust me on this one!

Nutritional Information for Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe

Okay, just a quick note: the nutrition info can vary *a lot* depending on the exact veggies and brands you use. So, don’t take it as gospel, okay? Just a rough idea!

Enjoyed This Cozy Winter Vegetable Soup Recipe?

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