Hearty Vegetable Soup with Zucchini

This delicious vegetable soup is a perfect choice when you're in the mood for something healthy, filling, and comforting. It combines traditional flavors with a hint of freshness from basil and dill. Ideal for chilly days, this soup is loaded with a variety of colorful vegetables making it a nutritional powerhouse. The use of beetroots not only adds a beautiful color but also enriches the dish with natural sweetness. The addition of garlic enhances the flavor profile, while zucchinis and peas provide a refreshing twist. It's a flexible recipe that you can adjust based on the vegetables you have on hand or according to your taste. The use of either water or broth as the base makes it adaptable for vegetarian or non-vegetarian preferences. You can enjoy it as is or add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. It's also an excellent make-ahead recipe that tastes even better the next day. Overall, it's a simple yet delightful soup that is packed full of flavors and nutrients suitable for any meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 liters water or broth
• 1 cabbage, chopped
• 3 red beetroots, peeled and chopped
• 5 carrots, sliced
• 5 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1-2 zucchinis, chopped
• 1 bulb garlic, minced
• Green peas
• Basil, chopped
• Dill, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by boiling 3 liters of water or broth in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Once the liquid is boiling, add a handful of chopped cabbage, beetroots, garlic, and carrots.
3. Allow these vegetables to simmer for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot and let them cook for another 5 minutes. This will ensure they become tender.
5. Once the potatoes are partially cooked, introduce the chopped zucchinis and green peas into the pot.
6. Stir in a generous amount of fresh dill and basil for aromatic flavors.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to suit your preference.
8. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
9. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. For an added touch, garnish the soup bowls with fresh basil leaves.
11. Optionally, serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for a richer taste.
12. The soup is now ready to serve and enjoy.
13. If you prefer, the soup can be paired with crusty bread or crackers for a fuller meal.
14. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors deepen and become even more delicious the next day.
15. Feel free to experiment by adding other favorite vegetables or herbs.
16. The soup can also be frozen for up to a month and reheated to enjoy later.
17. For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked chicken or tofu.
18. Remember not to overcook the vegetables to maintain their texture and nutrients.
19. It's important to keep tasting and seasoning as you go to achieve the best flavor.
20. Enjoy your hearty and nourishing vegetable soup!

Tips

• Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Substitute water with vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor.
• Adjust seasoning as needed to match your taste preferences.
• Add a pinch of sugar if beets are too earthy for you, to balance the flavors.

Nutritions

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• To make it vegan, ensure the broth is vegetable-based.
• For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chopped chili.
• Gluten-free by ensuring seasonings and broth are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with: Whole grain or sourdough bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Pair with: A light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with: Fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Best Places

• La Zucca - Known for its vegan and vegetarian offerings with a delightful zucchini soup option. Location: Santa Croce, Venice, Italy.
• Borsch & Chérie - Offers a range of Eastern European soups in a cozy setting. Location: Tęcza, Warsaw, Poland.
• Soup Kitchen - Famous for its daily rotating soup menu featuring seasonal ingredients. Location: Little Portland St, London, UK.
• Supa Supa Soup Kitchen - A popular spot offering a variety of hearty soups. Location: Cork St, Dublin, Ireland.
• Mama Soup - Family-inspired recipes for comforting bowls of soup. Location: Queen St. W, Toronto, Canada.
• Soup Nutsy - Known for their fast service and hearty soups. Location: New York, NY, USA.
• Yam'Tcha - Combines French and Chinese influences with an option for delightful soups. Location: Rue Sauval, Paris, France.
• Berliner Suppenküche - Offers traditional German flavors in every bowl. Location: Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
• Il Principe - Known for authentic Italian soups with modern twists. Location: Roma Termini, Rome, Italy.
• Soup & Soul Bistro - Specializes in soulful soups using local ingredients. Location: Old Town, Prague, Czech Republic.