Delicious Soup Ball Vegetable Recipe: A Comforting Delight

Are you looking for a heartwarming dish that combines the goodness of vegetables with the comforting essence of soup? Look no further! This soup ball vegetable recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up, this dish will surely become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!

Soup Ball Vegetable Ingredients

To make a delicious soup ball vegetable, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

For the Soup Balls:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
• 1/2 cup grated carrot
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated cheese
• Croutons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add the Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Combine the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.

Making the Soup Balls

6. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa or rice, grated zucchini, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
7. Form the Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
8. Cook the Soup Balls: You can either bake or boil the soup balls. To bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. To boil, gently drop the balls into the simmering soup and cook for about 10 minutes until they float to the top.

Serving

9. Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, adding a few soup balls to each serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, grated cheese, or croutons if desired.

Soup Ball Vegetable: Cooking Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the soup and soup balls separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
• Freezing: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the soup balls separately and add them fresh when reheating.
• Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the greens.

Soup Ball Vegetable: Nutritional Information

This soup ball vegetable recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 7g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Soup Ball Vegetable Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or beans for extra protein.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or dill for a unique flavor profile.

Soup Ball Vegetable FAQ

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and omit the Parmesan cheese.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a light sandwich.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free.

Conclusion

This soup ball vegetable recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal that warms the soul. With its vibrant flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your results with us! What variations did you try? Let us know in the comments below!