Ah, Christmas soup! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly holiday nights. I can’t tell you how many times my family gathered around the kitchen, the aroma of simmering veggies wafting through the air, filling our hearts with warmth and joy. This soup has become a cherished tradition in my home, bringing everyone together to share stories and laughter. It’s not just any soup, but a delightful blend of flavors that warms your soul and makes you feel all cozy inside. Whether you’re snowed in or just winding down after a festive day, this Christmas soup is the perfect companion. Trust me, once you take a sip, you’ll know exactly what I mean—it’s the essence of the holiday season in every spoonful!

Ingredients for Christmas Soup

Gathering the ingredients for this Christmas soup is half the fun! They’re simple, wholesome, and packed with flavors that just scream holiday cheer. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked pasta (optional, but oh-so-good!)

Feel free to get creative! If you have other veggies hanging out in your fridge, toss them in! This soup is all about comfort and making it your own.

How to Prepare Christmas Soup

Making this Christmas soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel the holiday spirit bubbling up with each step! Let’s get started:

First, heat that lovely olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it warm enough to sizzle but not so hot that it smokes—trust me, we want to keep it cozy!
Next, toss in your chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook these beauties for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become aromatic. It’s like the base of your holiday magic!
Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 1 minute. You’ll want to stay nearby, as garlic has a sneaky way of burning if left unattended.
Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and chopped green beans. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary, and give it a good stir. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil!
Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous and have some cooked pasta handy, stir it in just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and voilà! Your Christmas soup is ready to warm your heart!

Nutritional Information

Now, I know you might be curious about the nutritional side of things, and while I can’t guarantee these numbers are spot on—since they can vary based on ingredients and brands—here’s a typical breakdown for a serving of my Christmas soup:

Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 600mg

So, you can feel good about enjoying a warm bowl of this comforting soup during the holidays!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore this Christmas soup! Here are just a few of my favorites:

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip up this soup in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy the holiday festivities!
Comforting and Flavorful: It’s like a warm embrace in a bowl, filled with rich flavors that celebrate the season.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have at home, making it perfect for using up those leftover veggies!
Healthy Choice: Packed with vegetables and nutrients, it’s a wholesome addition to your holiday spread.
Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prepping after holiday gatherings!

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this soup has become a holiday staple in my home!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your Christmas soup turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your soup game:

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary can add a vibrant flavor compared to dried ones. If you have them on hand, chop them up and toss them in!
Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to throw in seasonal vegetables like squash or kale. They’ll add flavor and nutrition, plus some festive color!
Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a richer taste, try using a vegetable broth with added herbs or even a low-sodium option to control the saltiness.
Mind the Cook Time: Keep an eye on your cooking time! If you over-simmer, the veggies can get mushy. You want them tender but still with a bit of bite!
Garnish for Flair: When serving, consider a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of lemon juice for brightness. It makes a beautiful presentation!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a Christmas soup that’s not only delicious but also uniquely yours!

Variations on Christmas Soup

One of the best things about this Christmas soup is its versatility! You can truly make it your own with just a few tweaks. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Herb Explosion: Try adding fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of dill can also elevate the flavor profile!
Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to warm things up a bit!
Veggie Wonderland: Get creative with your vegetables! Sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even spinach can add unique textures and flavors.
Protein Boost: For a heartier soup, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. They not only pack a nutritious punch but also make it super filling!
Seasonal Flair: Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a hint of maple syrup can introduce a delightful sweetness that complements the savory elements.

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! So, dive in and let your imagination run wild while keeping the spirit of Christmas soup alive!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of this delightful Christmas soup is super easy, and it tastes just as amazing the next day! Once your soup has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy it throughout the week!

If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it too. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It should last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to dig in, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm it up over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to get it back to that perfect consistency. Enjoy your cozy bowl again!

Serving Suggestions

To make your Christmas soup experience even more delightful, I love to serve it with some crusty bread or warm rolls. There’s nothing quite like dipping a slice of fresh bread into that cozy soup! A simple garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can also add a refreshing touch to your meal. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, some cheesy garlic bread would really take it over the top! Trust me, these pairings will round out your holiday feast and leave everyone asking for seconds!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

And if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of vegetables, you can read this article on Healthline.

Christmas Soup: 7 Heartwarming Secrets to Blissful Flavor

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A warm and comforting soup perfect for the holiday season.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, thyme, and rosemary.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Add cooked pasta if using. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables.
Can be made a day ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: christmas soup, holiday soup, vegetarian soup

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