If there’s one thing Martha Stewart knows how to do, it’s create meals that combine simplicity with exceptional flavor. Her Vegetable Soup Recipe is a perfect example. This dish brings together a colorful medley of vegetables, herbs, and rich broths into a satisfying and healthy bowl of goodness. Perfect for a cozy night in or for meal prepping for the week, this soup offers both comfort and nutrition. With the chill of fall or winter often making us crave something warm and hearty, a bowl of homemade vegetable soup is the perfect solution.
Martha’s recipe stands out because it uses fresh, seasonal ingredients and takes full advantage of the flavors that different vegetables bring to the table. But what makes it even better is how easy it is to make. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to get it right – just a few basic ingredients and you’re ready to go!
Let’s take a deeper dive into the recipe, explore the key ingredients, cooking process, and even look at some helpful tips to elevate your soup-making game.
Martha Stewart Vegetable Soup Recipe
This is a classic vegetable soup that embraces the beauty of simplicity while highlighting the natural flavors of fresh produce. The beauty of Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup lies in its versatility-it’s easy to customize, making it ideal for any season. Whether you like it packed with a variety of vegetables or prefer a more minimalist approach with just a few star ingredients, this recipe is your canvas.
Ingredients Needed
- Olive oil – The base of the soup, giving it a rich and smooth texture. It’s a healthy fat and will help sauté your vegetables to bring out their flavor.
- Carrots – Chopped or diced, carrots bring sweetness and a satisfying bite to the soup.
- Celery – Adds a fresh crunch and a slight herbal flavor, balancing the sweetness of the carrots.
- Onions – The aromatic base, giving a depth of flavor and a savory element to the soup.
- Garlic – Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that infuses the broth with its rich, earthy aroma.
- Tomatoes – Diced or crushed, tomatoes contribute acidity and a subtle sweetness to the soup, helping to balance the flavors.
- Vegetable broth – The foundation of the soup, lending a savory, umami flavor that brings everything together. You can also use chicken broth if you prefer.
- Potatoes – These are optional but highly recommended for their starch content, which will give the soup a nice body and creaminess.
- Herbs – Fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves are often included. These herbs bring a fragrant, earthy quality to the dish.
- Leafy greens – Kale or spinach can be added for extra nutrients and color. They also provide a slight bitterness that contrasts with the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Salt & pepper – These are essentials to bring everything into balance. Adjust to taste.
- Optional extras – A dash of vinegar or lemon juice can add a fresh, tangy kick to the broth.
Cooking Instructions
Making Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup is relatively simple and doesn’t require a lot of time or special skills. The key is to sauté your vegetables properly to extract the maximum flavor before adding the broth. Let’s break it down step-by-step:
- Prepare the vegetables: Start by washing, peeling, and chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Keep them uniform in size for even cooking. This includes your carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and any leafy greens you plan to add.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Add tomatoes and herbs: Next, add your chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir them in and let them cook down a bit. If you’re using fresh herbs, add them now. Fresh thyme and rosemary work particularly well. Add a pinch of salt and pepper at this stage to season.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and bring the soup to a simmer. Add the potatoes at this point, allowing them to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy.
- Add the leafy greens: Once your potatoes are tender, stir in the leafy greens (such as kale or spinach) and cook for another 5-7 minutes. The greens will wilt and soften into the soup, contributing both texture and flavor.
- Final adjustments: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for a bit of acidity. If you want more richness, you can add a dollop of olive oil or a splash of cream.
- Serve: Once everything is tender and well-mixed, your soup is ready to serve. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this vegetable soup contributes something special to the dish. Here’s a closer look at the key players:
- Olive oil: A healthy fat source, olive oil is a great way to sauté your vegetables while giving them a rich texture. It’s also loaded with antioxidants and healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Carrots: A naturally sweet vegetable, carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This helps support eye health and immune function.
- Celery: Often overlooked, celery is packed with vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants. Its high water content helps with hydration and contributes a crunchy texture to the soup.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C and lycopene, tomatoes provide antioxidants that promote heart health and protect against cell damage.
- Potatoes: Although they sometimes get a bad reputation, potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. They help create a creamy texture in soups and stews.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves are excellent for infusing a savory, aromatic base into the broth. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to overall well-being.
Expert Tips
- Sauté your vegetables well: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Let the onions, carrots, and celery cook slowly in the oil. This step is essential for developing deep, caramelized flavors.
- Add a little acid: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can really brighten up the soup and balance the flavors. Don’t skip this step-it makes a difference!
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs make a world of difference. If you only have dried herbs, use half the amount called for in the recipe, since dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Consider adding a protein: To make this soup more filling, consider adding beans, lentils, or shredded chicken. It’ll transform the dish into a complete meal.
- Make it ahead of time: Like most soups, this vegetable soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for later use.
Recipe Variations
While the basic vegetable soup recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch things up based on what you like or what you have available:
- Add beans or legumes: Chickpeas, cannellini beans, or lentils can easily be added to this soup to add more texture and protein.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to give the soup a spicy kick.
- Add greens: You can use any leafy greens you like. Kale, spinach, or Swiss chard are all great options. Kale is particularly hearty and holds up well in soup.
- Substitute with chicken broth: If you’re not vegetarian or vegan, using chicken broth instead of vegetable broth will add a deeper flavor.
- Top with croutons: For some crunch, top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons.
Final Words
This vegetable soup is the epitome of healthy comfort food. The ingredients are simple, fresh, and wholesome, and the recipe offers flexibility in terms of what you can add. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread, it’s the perfect meal for a chilly evening.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup typically includes a variety of fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, garlic, potatoes, tomatoes, and green beans. It is often seasoned with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, and sometimes includes vegetable broth or stock as the base.
Can I Make Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any non-vegan ingredients like butter or cream. The soup is naturally plant-based and can be made vegan-friendly with minor adjustments.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup?
The total cooking time for Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup is typically about 1 to 1.5 hours, including preparation and simmering time. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
Can I Freeze Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup?
Yes, Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup can be frozen for later use. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.
What Variations Can I Make To Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup Recipe?
You can customize the vegetable soup by adding different vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or parsnips. You can also include grains like quinoa or pasta, or add protein like beans or lentils. Experimenting with different herbs or spices like cumin or turmeric can also create a new flavor profile.
Is There A Gluten-free Version Of Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Yes, Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring that all ingredients used, such as broth, are gluten-free. If you decide to add pasta, use a gluten-free pasta variety. Always check ingredient labels to confirm they are gluten-free.
Can I Use Canned Vegetables For Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup?
While fresh vegetables are preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can substitute canned vegetables if necessary. Be sure to drain and rinse the canned vegetables to reduce the sodium content. Keep in mind that the soup may have a different texture with canned ingredients.
What Type Of Broth Should I Use For Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup?
For a vegetarian or vegan version, use vegetable broth. If you’re not following a vegetarian diet, you can use chicken broth for added richness. Homemade broth is always a good option for enhanced flavor, but store-bought options work well too.
What Should I Serve With Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup?
Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a light sandwich. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a piece of roasted chicken.
How Can I Make Martha Stewart’s Vegetable Soup Spicier?
To add heat to Martha Stewart’s vegetable soup, you can incorporate spices like cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or fresh chopped chili peppers. Adjust the level of spice to your preference, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed.