Vegetable Macaroni Soup

Igredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion diced

2 garlic cloves crushed

1 stick celery diced

1 Large carrot diced

90 g Frozen Sweetcorn

90 g Frozen peas

1 litre vegetable stock

400 g can chopped tomatoes

100 g macaroni

2 tablespoon basil leaves finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1:

Gently heat the olive oil in a medium sized saucepan.

Add the onion, garlic, celery and carrot and sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften.

Step 2:

Stir in the frozen sweetcorn and peas.

Add the vegetable stock and can of tomatoes.

Bring to the boil then simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3:

Add the macaroni, return to the boil then turn down to simmer for another 10 minutes until pasta and vegetables are cooked.

Step 4:

Turn off the heat, stir in the basil, season to taste and serve.

Notes:

Versatile Ingredients: This soup is highly adaptable. You can easily substitute or add other vegetables based on personal preference or what’s available in your pantry or fridge.

Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and whole-grain macaroni, this soup is not only delicious but also provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: This soup is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans. It’s also a great option for Meatless Mondays or those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes well, so consider making a big batch and storing individual portions in the freezer for convenient meals later on. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Customizable Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor or spice it up with a pinch of chili flakes.

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Texture Variation: For those who prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the macaroni to create a smoother texture.

Kid-Friendly: This soup is a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters. The colorful array of vegetables and fun pasta shapes make it appealing to children.

Meal Prep Option: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or packed lunches.

Serve with Accompaniments: Consider serving this soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delicious finishing touch for cheese lovers.

Nutrition Information:

1 serving

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables for frozen ones.

Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?

Absolutely, you can use chicken stock if you prefer.

However, it will change the flavor profile of the soup slightly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or shells.

Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

How long can I store the leftovers in the refrigerator?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular macaroni to make this soup gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Is this soup suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets?

Yes, this soup is entirely plant-based and suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets.

Can I add protein like chicken or tofu to this soup?

Absolutely, you can add cooked chicken, tofu, or even beans to add protein to the soup.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well.

Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make this soup more flavorful?

You can add additional herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika to enhance the flavor of the soup.

Can I omit the basil or use a different herb?

Yes, you can omit the basil or use other herbs like parsley, cilantro, or oregano based on your preference or what you have on hand.