Paula Deen Vegetable Soup Recipe

Paula Deen’s Vegetable Soup is a comforting and hearty dish packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful broth. This classic recipe is perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal and is versatile enough to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

What is Paula Deen Vegetable Soup?

Paula Deen’s Vegetable Soup is a rich and savory soup made with a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a seasoned broth. The recipe combines wholesome ingredients with aromatic herbs for a flavorful and nutrient-packed meal that’s ideal for any occasion.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Healthy and hearty: Packed with fresh vegetables and nutrients, this soup is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Customizable: You can easily swap or add vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season.
• Great for meal prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and common vegetables.
• Family-friendly: A dish that’s loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients Needed to Make Paula Deen Vegetable Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions to Make Paula Deen Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes

• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the canned diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir to combine.
• Add the dried thyme, basil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

• Stir in the diced potatoes, green beans, corn, peas, and zucchini. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

Step 5: Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

What Goes Well With Paula Deen Vegetable Soup

• Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Grilled cheese: A gooey grilled cheese sandwich pairs wonderfully with this soup.
• Green salad: Serve with a crisp salad for a light, balanced meal.
• Cheese platter: Pair with mild cheeses for a comforting, indulgent appetizer.
• Rice or quinoa: Add a scoop of cooked rice or quinoa to make the soup heartier.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Paula Deen Vegetable Soup

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh, in-season vegetables add the best flavor and texture.
• Cut evenly: Chop vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the soup vigorously, as this can make the vegetables mushy.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process for a well-balanced flavor.
• Add greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.

Variations of Paula Deen Vegetable Soup

• Beef Vegetable Soup: Add cooked, shredded beef or browned ground beef for a heartier version.
• Spicy Vegetable Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Vegetable Soup: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
• Vegan Soup: Use vegetable broth and omit butter for a vegan-friendly option.
• Lentil Vegetable Soup: Add a cup of cooked lentils for extra protein and fiber.

Storing Paula Deen Vegetable Soup: Best Practices

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for later: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Portion for convenience: Divide into individual portions before freezing for easy reheating.

Reheating Paula Deen Vegetable Soup: Best Practices

• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can vegetable soup be frozen?

Yes, vegetable soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How can I make vegetable soup more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of vegetable soup, use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for brightness, and season generously with salt and pepper. Using a good-quality broth also makes a big difference.

What vegetables are best for vegetable soup?

Classic choices include carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, green beans, zucchini, and corn. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale and seasonal vegetables for variety.

Can I make vegetable soup vegan?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and avoid adding dairy products or meat. The soup is naturally vegan with these adjustments.

Final Words

Paula Deen’s Vegetable Soup is a classic, comforting recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Packed with fresh vegetables and bold flavors, this soup is a great choice for a healthy, satisfying meal. Perfect for any time of the year, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Try this recipe today and savor the simple, wholesome goodness of homemade vegetable soup!

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