Italian Vegetable Soup

Italian Vegetable Soup is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that incorporates Italian seasonings for a unique twist. While it’s not a traditional minestrone soup, it stands out from regular vegetable soups with its distinctive flavors and ingredients. Packed with a variety of vegetables and seasoned with herbs, this soup is a delicious and wholesome option for a comforting meal.

INGREDIENTS:

• 9 ounces (255 g) frozen green beans
• 8 ounces (225 g) frozen cauliflower
• 1 can (14 ounces, or 400 g) no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ cup (80 g) chopped onion
• ½ cup (50 g) sliced celery
• ¼ cup (50 g) barley
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups (700 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1½ cups (355 ml) low-sodium vegetable juice

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a slow cooker, combine all the ingredients except the vegetable broth and vegetable juice.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the vegetable broth and vegetable juice. Pour the mixture over the vegetable ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

YIELD: 6 servings

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• 331 g water
• 103 calories (10% from fat, 21% from protein, 68% from carbs)
• 6 g protein
• 1 g total fat
• 0 g saturated fat
• 0 g monounsaturated fat
• 0 g polyunsaturated fat
• 19 g carbs
• 5 g fiber
• 6 g sugar
• 114 mg phosphorus
• 102 mg calcium
• 2 mg iron
• 130 mg sodium
• 567 mg potassium
• 1386 IU vitamin A
• 1 mg ATE vitamin E
• 48 mg vitamin C
• 0 mg cholesterol

TIP:

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider topping each serving of Italian Vegetable Soup with a dollop of pesto and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This will add a delightful herbal note and a touch of richness to the soup.

In conclusion, Italian Vegetable Soup offers a delightful combination of flavors and a nutritious blend of vegetables. This vegetarian soup is elevated by the use of Italian seasonings, giving it a distinct taste that sets it apart from regular vegetable soups. With the addition of frozen green beans, cauliflower, diced tomatoes, and a variety of herbs, this soup provides a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

The slow cooker method ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully while allowing the vegetables to cook to perfection. The low-sodium vegetable broth and vegetable juice serve as the base, infusing the soup with rich and savory flavors without excessive salt. The combination of basil, garlic, and oregano adds a delightful Italian flair, enhancing the overall taste profile of the soup.

This Italian Vegetable Soup is not only flavorful but also a healthy choice. It is low in fat and cholesterol, making it suitable for those seeking a lighter option. The soup is packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. It also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced and nourishing meal.

To take this soup to the next level, consider topping each serving with a spoonful of pesto and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The pesto adds a burst of fresh herb flavor, while the Parmesan cheese lends a delightful richness. These additions elevate the soup’s taste and provide a pleasing contrast of textures.

Italian Vegetable Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or dinner, or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal. Its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients make it an excellent choice for cold days or whenever you’re craving a satisfying bowl of soup.

In summary, Italian Vegetable Soup offers a unique twist on traditional vegetable soup by incorporating Italian seasonings. With its flavorful blend of vegetables, herbs, and low-sodium broth, this soup is both delicious and nutritious. Give this recipe a try and savor the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table.