Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing and chopping all the vegetables. The more colorful, the better! The mix of different vegetables will make the soup nutrient-dense and flavorful.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Add the Vegetables: To the pot, add the sliced carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, cauliflower, broccoli, and green beans. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic, letting the vegetables cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Season the Soup: Stir in the turmeric, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. These spices not only add flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help support your weight loss efforts.
Simmer: Once the soup comes to a boil, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will meld together.
Add Leafy Greens: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and incorporated into the soup.
Finish and Serve: For extra freshness, squeeze in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice before serving. This adds a zesty flavor and also supports digestion. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoying the Soup for Weight Loss
This vegetable soup can be enjoyed as a main meal or as a healthy snack. To support weight loss:
- Eat It as a Starter: Have a bowl of this soup as your appetizer before your main meal. This will fill you up and reduce the number of calories you consume throughout the meal.
- Make It Your Meal: For a more substantial meal, you can pair it with a small serving of whole grains (like quinoa or brown rice) or lean protein (such as grilled chicken or tofu) if you’re looking for additional nutrients.
How Often Should You Eat It?
To help you lose weight, aim to incorporate this soup into your diet 2-3 times a week. You can also have it daily for lunch or dinner if you’re following a more structured weight-loss plan. The key is to eat it as part of a well-balanced diet with plenty of other whole foods and exercise.
Additional Tips for Maximum Weight Loss
- Avoid Cream: This soup is naturally creamy with the vegetables, so there's no need to add any dairy. Adding cream will increase calories and reduce the health benefits.
- Batch Cooking: Make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This makes it easy to have a healthy meal ready at any time.
- Pair with Light Exercise: For the best results, combine your vegetable soup with regular physical activity such as walking, yoga, or cardio exercises.
