This Green Detox Soup is a bright and healthy choice packed with fresh veggies like spinach, broccoli, and peas. It’s not only tasty but also super easy to make!
I love how refreshing it is—I can almost feel the nutrients working their magic! 🥦 Whether you have it warm or chilled, it’s a great way to feel light and bright all day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and flavor. If olive oil isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with avocado oil or coconut oil, both of which work well in soups.
Onion: A medium onion creates a base flavor. You can use shallots for a milder taste or leeks for something a bit sweeter if you’re looking for a twist.
Garlic: Garlic gives a punch of flavor and aroma. If you’re avoiding garlic, shallots or even garlic powder can add a different note.
Greens: Spinach is my go-to for its mild taste. Kale is heartier, so it can add a nice texture. You can even swap them with other greens like Swiss chard or collard greens if you prefer.
Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth enhances flavors. You can use water in a pinch, but you might want to add a bit of soy sauce or miso for depth. Homemade broth would be even better if you have the time!
How Do I Get the Right Flavor Balance in This Soup?
Balancing flavors is key! Start with sautéing the onion well to build a solid foundation, then add garlic and ginger to layer on more aroma. Seasoning the soup at the end with salt and pepper can help refine the flavors as they can’t be adjusted once blended.
- Cook your veggies until they’re soft to ensure they blend well.
- Adjust flavors after blending – add lemon juice or herbs to enhance freshness!
- Remember, soups develop flavor as they sit, so consider making it a day ahead if you can!
How to Make Green Detox Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables and Flavorings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Liquids and Seasoning:
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Green Detox Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s an easy and quick option for a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until you can smell their delicious aroma.
2. Adding the Vegetables:
It’s time to add more veggies! Stir in the chopped celery and green beans. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to help them soften up a bit.
3. Mixing in the Greens:
Now, add the chopped spinach or kale and zucchini to the pot. Give everything a good stir and allow the greens to wilt slightly—this will take just a couple of minutes!
4. Cooking the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water if you prefer). Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
5. Blending the Soup:
Once the vegetables are cooked, take the pot off the heat. If you have an immersion blender, use it to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you like it chunkier, feel free to blend just part of the soup!
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir to combine all the flavors.
7. Serving the Soup:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with your choice of fresh herbs for a pop of flavor. Enjoy your nourishing Green Detox Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver. Just make sure to add them directly to the pot without thawing first, as they’ll cook down nicely in the broth. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables often take a bit less time to become tender.
How Can I Adjust the Soup for a Spicier Flavor?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the garlic. Start with a little and taste as you go, adjusting to your preferred spice level!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or even legumes like chickpeas for added protein. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure all ingredients are tender.
