Vegetable noodle soup is a delightful dish you might want to enjoy with a variety of accompaniments. Bread, particularly crusty baguettes or garlic bread, adds a comforting touch. A simple side salad filled with leafy greens can offer a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
If you prefer something heavier, try pairing it with a hearty sandwich, perhaps filled with avocado or roasted vegetables. And let’s not forget some grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top of your soup for an added savoriness!
What is Vegetable Noodle Soup?
Vegetable noodle soup is a comforting dish featuring soft noodles, a variety of vegetables, and a rich broth. This combination creates a delightful experience, suitable for both a light lunch and a cozy dinner.
Packed with vitamins from the vegetables and the satisfaction of noodles, it’s not just delicious, it’s a nutritious choice for anyone craving comfort food.
The Flavor Profile of Vegetable Noodle Soup
The essence of vegetable noodle soup lies in its simplicity and freshness. The flavors are bright and well-rounded. Think about the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of potatoes, and the sharpness of garlic.
The herbs, like dill and parsley, provide a fresh twist. Meanwhile, a hint of lemon juice brightens everything up, leaving you with a subtly tangy finish. It’s a delightful blend that warms you from the inside out.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Vegetable Noodle Soups?
I’ve tested various vegetable noodle soup recipes over the years. Many fall short, relying heavily on pre-made stocks and artificial flavors. This recipe takes a different approach. It starts with fresh ingredients and emphasizes herbs and spices. The addition of ginger adds a subtle warmth, while the crushed red pepper flakes give a gentle kick. This isn’t just another bowl of soup; it’s a carefully crafted blend that elevates a classic comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this cozy recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (adds warmth and brightness)
- 8 cups vegetable stock
- 1 medium yellow potato (approximately 6 ounces), peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 medium celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup small dried pasta shells (or preferred petite pasta shape)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for gentle heat)
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and celery. Sauté them until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The combination begins to create a mouthwatering aroma in your kitchen.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Now, toss in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Stir everything up, allowing the vegetables to soak up the flavors from the aromatics. After about 3 minutes, it’s time for the next step.
Step 3: Pour in the Vegetable Stock
Pour in the 8 cups of vegetable stock. Raise the heat to medium-high until it’s brought to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
After about 10 minutes, check to see if the carrots and potatoes are tender. Add the small pasta shells to the broth and let them cook according to package instructions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Herbs and Seasoning
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh dill, thawed peas, and lemon juice. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. Let it all simmer together for an extra minute to meld those flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. If you’re feeling indulgent, top it with a sprinkle of grated cheese. Enjoy it warm with your favorite bread or salad on the side.
Tips On Making Vegetable Noodle Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor. Don’t skimp here!
- Make Your Own Vegetable Stock: If you have more time, creating your own vegetable stock will elevate your soup significantly.
- Adjust the Heat: If you love heat, feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables you love, such as zucchini or spinach.
- Batch Cooking: This soup freezes remarkably well. Make a large batch and enjoy it on a busy day.
Nutrition Information
One serving of this vegetable noodle soup (about 1 cup) typically contains:
- Calories: approximately 180
- Protein: 5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 6 grams
- Sugars: 3 grams
- Fats: 4 grams
It’s low in calories but rich in flavor and nutrients, making it an excellent addition to any healthy meal plan.
How Can I Store This Vegetable Noodle Soup?
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you plan to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. It will keep well frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
If you find yourself short on certain ingredients, don’t panic! There are plenty of substitutes that can work just as well:
- Carrots: Parsnips can work in a pinch, offering a slightly different but still sweet flavor.
- Potatoes: Sweet potatoes can add a different dimension and sweetness to your soup.
- Fresh Dill: If you don’t have dill, thyme or basil can offer a nice herbal note.
- Vegetable Stock: If you only have water on hand, use it! Just increase the seasonings slightly.
Conclusion
Vegetable noodle soup is more than just a simple dish; it’s a revelation of flavor and comfort. I hope this guide not only inspires you to whip up a pot of soup but also empowers you to make it uniquely yours.
As you enjoy each spoonful, imagine yourself warming up those chilly evenings or satisfying a mid-afternoon craving. It truly is a dish that can fit into any part of your day, warming not just your stomach but your heart as well. So go ahead and experiment, share your creations, and savor every delightful bite!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Vegetable Noodle Soup – Simple Easy Meals
There’s something soothing about a steaming bowl of vegetable noodle soup. It’s not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Picture this: a chilly evening, you’re wrapped in a blanket, and in front of you sits a bowl of vibrant, aromatic broth kissed with fresh herbs.
You feel that warmth seep into your bones. So, how do you make this inviting dish? Let’s dive deeper into the world of vegetable noodle soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
-
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and celery. Sauté them until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The combination begins to create a mouthwatering aroma in your kitchen.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
-
Now, toss in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Stir everything up, allowing the vegetables to soak up the flavors from the aromatics. After about 3 minutes, it’s time for the next step.
Step 3: Pour in the Vegetable Stock
-
Pour in the 8 cups of vegetable stock. Raise the heat to medium-high until it’s brought to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
-
After about 10 minutes, check to see if the carrots and potatoes are tender. Add the small pasta shells to the broth and let them cook according to package instructions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Herbs and Seasoning
-
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh dill, thawed peas, and lemon juice. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. Let it all simmer together for an extra minute to meld those flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
-
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. If you’re feeling indulgent, top it with a sprinkle of grated cheese. Enjoy it warm with your favorite bread or salad on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4g7%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor. Don't skimp here!
- Make Your Own Vegetable Stock: If you have more time, creating your own vegetable stock will elevate your soup significantly.
- Adjust the Heat: If you love heat, feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables you love, such as zucchini or spinach.
- Batch Cooking: This soup freezes remarkably well. Make a large batch and enjoy it on a busy day.
