This comforting One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is loaded with fresh herbs and tender veggies, making it a perfect simple and easy recipe for lunch or dinner. Pair it with delicious bread for a complete meal.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., olive oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks celery, chopped
- ½ cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)
- ⅓ cup dairy-free butter
- 1 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk (e.g., soy milk)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 cup chickpeas or white beans (optional)
Directions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the oil, then sauté the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and salt for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
- Prepare the Roux: Add the dairy-free butter to the pot. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to coat the vegetables. The mixture will become thick and sticky.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring. Add black pepper, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Continue to stir until well combined.
- Simmer the Soup: Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring frequently as it thickens to prevent burning.
- Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Add the peas, corn, nutritional yeast, and chickpeas (if using) to the pot. Pour in the dairy-free milk and reduce the heat to low. Let the soup cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the peas and corn are heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~180-220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~9g
- Saturated Fat: ~2g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~5g
- Sodium: ~500mg (varies depending on broth and added salt)
- Calcium: ~100mg
- Iron: ~2mg
The Ultimate Comfort: One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
Soup is one of the most beloved meals worldwide, offering comfort, warmth, and nourishment in every spoonful. Among the many varieties, One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup stands out as a wholesome, easy-to-make dish packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich, creamy texture. This soup is perfect for chilly days when you crave something hearty yet healthy. It brings together a combination of fresh vegetables, plant-based milk, and a thickening roux to create a velvety, satisfying meal. Unlike traditional creamy soups that rely on dairy, this recipe uses dairy-free alternatives, making it vegan-friendly and lactose-free. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a dish to impress guests, this soup covers all bases. It is customizable, allowing you to add different vegetables and protein sources based on what you have on hand. Plus, it is an excellent way to incorporate more nutrient-rich foods into your diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
- Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein.
- Creamy Without Dairy: Uses dairy-free milk and butter alternatives for a rich texture.
- Customizable: Add or swap ingredients based on dietary preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for easy lunches and dinners.
The Health Benefits of One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
This soup is more than just a tasty dish; it is loaded with health benefits. Each ingredient contributes to making this meal a nutritious addition to your diet.
- Rich in Fiber: With carrots, celery, peas, and chickpeas, this soup provides an excellent amount of fiber, supporting digestion and gut health.
- Boosts Immunity: Garlic, onions, and herbs like thyme and oregano contain antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system.
- Supports Heart Health: Using plant-based ingredients and reducing saturated fat can help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health.
- Keeps You Satisfied: The combination of protein and fiber ensures long-lasting satiety, making this a great meal for weight management.
Best Vegetables to Use in Creamy Soup
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can use a variety of vegetables depending on your taste and seasonal availability. Here are some of the best options:
- Carrots and Celery: Provide a classic aromatic base with natural sweetness.
- Corn and Peas: Add a pop of color, texture, and slight sweetness.
- Mushrooms: Give an earthy umami flavor and add extra heartiness.
- Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Enhance creaminess while making the soup more filling.
- Spinach or Kale: A great way to add extra greens for a nutrient boost.
How to Customize Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easily you can customize it to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Here are some variations:
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup.
- Add More Protein: Toss in chickpeas, white beans, or even tofu for extra protein.
- Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with different herbs and spices like smoked paprika, curry powder, or cayenne for a little heat.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Blend in cashew cream or coconut milk for an ultra-rich texture.
- Add Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa, rice, or barley for added texture and heartiness.
Tips for Making the Best One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup
- Sauté the Aromatics First: Cooking the garlic, onion, celery, and carrots before adding the broth enhances the depth of flavor.
- Stir Continuously When Adding Flour: This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Use a Good Quality Broth: A flavorful vegetable broth makes a huge difference in the final taste of the soup.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 10-15 minutes helps the flavors develop fully.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or dairy-free milk. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This soup is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and retains its flavor over time.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if it has thickened too much. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
What to Serve with Creamy Vegetable Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side can elevate the meal. Here are some great options:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
- Grilled Cheese: A classic pairing for an extra indulgent meal.
- Side Salad: A light, fresh salad complements the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds even more variety to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a pan before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add the dairy-free milk at the end to prevent curdling. - How do I make this soup nut-free?
Most plant-based milks are nut-free, but always check the label. You can use oat milk, soy milk, or rice milk as an alternative. - Can I add pasta to this soup?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or elbow macaroni work well. If adding pasta, you may need to increase the broth slightly to maintain the right consistency. - Is this soup suitable for kids?
Yes! This soup has a mild and creamy taste that kids usually enjoy. You can blend it smooth if they prefer a pureed texture or cut the veggies into small pieces for easy eating.
Conclusion
One-Pot Creamy Vegetable Soup is a perfect dish for any season. It is nourishing, satisfying, and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. With a balance of flavors, nutrients, and creamy texture, this soup delivers a comforting experience while keeping things wholesome and healthy.