Looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea? This Instant Pot Vegetable Soup is your answer! Packed with fresh veggies and simple flavors, it’s a nourishing meal that comes together in no time. From selecting ingredients to sautéing and cooking, I’ll guide you through each step. Whether you’re busy or just want a comforting bowl, this recipe has you covered. Ready to dive in? Let’s make something delicious!This recipe is quick, easy, and healthy.
List of Fresh Ingredients
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (your choice of color)
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Pantry Staples Needed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with their juices
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas
This selection of fresh and pantry ingredients makes a soup that warms the soul. Each item adds flavor and texture, making your meal both nourishing and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Aromatics
Start with the Instant Pot. Turn it on and select the Sauté mode. Add one tablespoon of olive oil. Wait for the oil to shimmer. Then, add one medium onion that you diced. Next, introduce two cloves of finely minced garlic. Cook these for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onion to become clear and smell good.
Adding and Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, it’s time to add some color! Add two medium carrots sliced into rounds. Then, put in two celery stalks sliced. Next, add one diced bell pepper—any color you like. Follow with one diced medium zucchini and one cup of green beans cut into 1-inch pieces. Sauté these for another 3 to 4 minutes. Stir them gently until they start to soften.
Cooking in the Instant Pot
Pour in one can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Then, add four cups of vegetable broth. Sprinkle in one teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried thyme. Toss in one bay leaf and season with salt and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients well so they mix nicely. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to Sealing. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and set the timer for 8 minutes.
Once the cycle is complete, carefully switch the valve to Venting. This lets out the steam. After the steam is gone, unlock and remove the lid. Stir in one cup of frozen peas and two cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. The heat will wilt the spinach and warm the peas. Taste your soup and add more seasoning if you want.Enjoy your nutritious Instant Pot Vegetable Soup!
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Burn Notices
To prevent burn notices in your Instant Pot, always add enough liquid. The vegetable broth in this soup is key. If you notice some veggies stuck to the bottom, give it a good stir. Also, try to layer your ingredients properly. Place the broth at the bottom, then add the veggies, and finally the tomatoes. This method helps keep the soup from burning.
Adjusting Seasoning for Personal Taste
Everyone has their own taste. After cooking, taste your soup. You might want more salt or pepper. Fresh herbs can also add flavor. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up. Don’t be afraid to experiment until it tastes right for you.
Best Practices for Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ingredients based on what you have. Don’t have zucchini? Use yellow squash instead. No green beans? Peas work too! If you want a heartier soup, add cooked lentils or beans. Just remember, cooking times may change. Check your ingredients to keep the soup balanced.
Variations
Adding Protein to the Soup
You can easily add protein to your vegetable soup. This makes it heartier and more filling. Try adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans. If you want a vegetarian option, chickpeas work great. Simply stir them in after the soup cooks. This way, the protein blends well with the flavors.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan soup, it’s simple to adjust. Skip the cheese topping, and use a plant-based broth. Coconut milk is a fun swap for a creamy texture. It gives a nice sweetness too. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Different Flavor Profiles to Experiment With
Experimenting with flavors can lead to new favorites. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for warmth. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can brighten the soup. A splash of lemon juice adds a zesty kick. Don’t be afraid to play around with different vegetables too. Try using sweet potatoes or kale for a twist. Each change can make the soup feel new and exciting.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
I love making a big batch of Instant Pot Vegetable Soup. It keeps well in the fridge. Store the soup in an airtight container. It lasts for about 4 to 5 days. Always let it cool before sealing. This helps keep the flavors fresh.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is great. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. The soup stays good for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight or use the microwave.
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Reheating is easy! You can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, heat it in a pot over low to medium heat. Stir often to avoid sticking. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Always check the temperature before serving. You can add a splash of broth if it gets too thick. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of soup!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Vegetable Soup?
Cooking Instant Pot vegetable soup takes about 30 minutes in total. This includes prep and cooking time. You will spend around 10 minutes preparing ingredients. The actual pressure cooking lasts 8 minutes. After that, you will need a few minutes for the pressure to release.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this soup. Frozen veggies save time and still taste great. Just add them in during the last step, like the recipe shows. The heat from the soup warms them up nicely. The soup will still be full of flavor and nutrition.
What other spices can I add for more flavor?
You can add many spices to boost the flavor. Consider using cumin for warmth or smoked paprika for a smoky taste. You might try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs, like basil or cilantro, also add a wonderful touch. Feel free to mix and match spices to find your favorite blend.
In this blog post, we explored how to make a great Instant Pot Vegetable Soup. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to avoid burn notices. You learned how to store the soup and explore different variations.
Now, you can create a tasty dish that fits your taste. Enjoy experimenting with your ingredients and flavors. Happy cooking and savor each bite!
