Description
A hearty and wholesome Slow Cooker Chunky Vegetable Soup packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, slow-cooked to tender perfection. This comforting soup is infused with lemon juice for brightness and garnished with fresh parsley for added freshness, making it a perfect nutritious meal for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables: Add sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced potatoes, and chopped zucchini into the slow cooker with the sautéed aromatics.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and vegetable broth. Stir in green beans, dried thyme, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to combine all flavors well.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until all vegetables are tender and flavors have melded together.
- Add Greens and Lemon: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and the juice of one lemon to brighten and freshen the soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: After the cooking time is complete, taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as necessary for your preference.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of fresh flavor and color.
Notes
- This soup is easily adaptable; add or substitute different vegetables based on seasonality or preference.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked beans or lentils during step 3.
- You can prepare all ingredients in the morning and let it cook throughout the day, perfect for busy schedules.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Adjust cooking times if your slow cooker runs hot or cold to avoid under or overcooking.
