Leftover Vegetable Soup

Name: Leftover Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 2 cups mixed vegetables (chopped, such as carrots, celery, potatoes); 1 cup greens (like spinach or kale, roughly chopped); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

45 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Leftover Vegetable Soup

A delicious and resourceful soup using leftover vegetables to create a nourishing meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

In today's kitchen, reducing food waste is not only economical but also environmentally friendly. 'Potage vide frigo', or 'Leftover Vegetable Soup', is a delightful way to use up any vegetables that are nearing the end of their freshness. This versatile soup allows you to clear out your fridge while creating a comforting and hearty meal. It's a Quebecois tradition that embraces creativity and practicality, turning what some might see as scraps into a delicious dish.

Ingredients

Servings

Soup Base

Vegetables

Seasoning

Instructions

Prepare the base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.

Pro tip: Don't rush this step; a properly cooked onion adds depth to the soup.

Add vegetables

Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

Pro tip: Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.

Simmer the soup

Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

Pro tip: Check the tenderness by piercing vegetables with a fork.

Add greens

Add the greens and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to evenly cook the greens.

Season the soup

Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro tip: For a richer flavour, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice.

Blend (optional)

For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth.

Pro tip: If using a countertop blender, blend in batches to avoid spills.

💡

Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use any vegetables you have on hand to make this soup uniquely yours.</li><li>Add a splash of cream for a richer texture.</li><li>Season to taste with your favourite herbs and spices.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Leftover Vegetable Soup can be served as a starter or a light main course. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.