Here’s a simple and delicious Weight Watchers vegetable soup recipe that’s both healthy and satisfying:
### Ingredients
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 yellow squash, chopped
– 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
– 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
– 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Chop all the vegetables and set aside.
2. **Sauté Aromatics** (optional step): In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. **Add Vegetables**: Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. **Add Liquids and Seasoning**: Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. **Cook the Soup**: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. **Add Greens**: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
7. **Season and Serve**: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
### Tips
– **Adjusting for Taste**: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your taste. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor.
– **Adding Protein**: If you want to add some protein without meat, consider adding beans such as cannellini, kidney, or chickpeas.
– **Storage**: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Weight Watchers vegetable soup!