What is “Busy Day Soup”?
In the whirlwind of our daily lives, finding time to cook a nourishing meal can seem like a daunting task. Enter the “Busy Day Soup” – a beacon of simplicity and taste in the storm of our hectic schedules. As a food reviewer who has had the pleasure of savoring this delightful concoction, I can attest to its comforting essence and ease of preparation. This soup is a versatile blend of vegetables, protein, and broth, designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Ideal for those evenings when time is scarce but the desire for a home-cooked meal is abundant.
Why You Will Love This Busy Day Soup Recipe
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this soup is ready in a snap, making it perfect for a busy day.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.
- Comforting: Every spoonful is a warm hug to your soul.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables and lean proteins.
How To Make Busy Day Soup Recipe
- Preparation Time
10 minutes - Cooking Time
30-40 minutes - Serves
4-6 people - Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef (optional for a vegetarian version)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) mixed vegetables, drained
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base Ingredients
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. This step lays the flavorful foundation of your soup.
Step 2: Brown the Meat (Optional)
If you’re using meat, add it to the pot and cook until browned. This not only adds richness to the soup but also introduces a lovely texture contrast.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the broth. The liquid from the tomatoes melds beautifully with the broth, creating a rich, savory base.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to deepen and meld together.
Step 5: Pasta Time
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. The macaroni adds a delightful chew and makes the soup even more filling.
Step 6: Adjust and Serve
Give the soup a final taste test and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a side of crusty bread.
Pro Tips For Busy Day Soup Recipe
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what’s available to you.
- Make Ahead: This soup freezes wonderfully. Make a big batch and save some for those days when cooking is the last thing on your mind.
How to Eat “Busy Day Soup”
Dive into this soup with a hearty appetite. It’s a complete meal in a bowl but pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a simple green salad for added freshness. The beauty of “Busy Day Soup” is its comforting simplicity, making it a versatile dish to enjoy in any way you please.
Conclusion
“Busy Day Soup” is more than just a meal; it’s a lifeline on those days when time and energy are in short supply. Its ease of preparation, combined with the heartiness and comforting flavors, makes it a favorite among those who try it. If you’ve enjoyed this recipe and found solace in its simplicity, please feel free to share it with friends and family who might appreciate a quick and satisfying meal solution.
You Can Also Read:- Marry me Chicken Recipe With Pasta
FAQs on “Busy Day Soup” Recipe
- What is “Busy Day Soup”?
- It’s a quick, easy, and nutritious soup perfect for busy days, made with vegetables, optional protein, and pasta.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef or turkey?
- Yes, ground chicken or even diced chicken breast works well in this soup.
- Is “Busy Day Soup” vegetarian-friendly?
- Absolutely, just skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Can I add different vegetables than what’s listed?
- Definitely! Feel free to include any veggies you have on hand. This soup is very versatile.
- What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
- Any small pasta shape will do, such as shells, orzo, or even broken spaghetti.
- Can I make this soup gluten-free?
- Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta or substitute with rice or quinoa.
- How can I make the soup thicker?
- You can puree some of the cooked vegetables and return them to the pot, or add a bit of tomato paste.
- Can “Busy Day Soup” be made in a slow cooker?
- Yes, sauté the base ingredients, then add everything except the pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes.
- Is this soup spicy?
- No, it’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.
- Can I freeze “Busy Day Soup”?
- Yes, it freezes well. Just omit the pasta or cook it al dente before freezing to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
- How long does this soup last in the fridge?
- It should keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
- Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a little broth or water if it’s too thick.
- Can I use canned vegetables?
- Yes, canned vegetables are a great time-saver for this recipe.
- Is “Busy Day Soup” keto-friendly?
- It can be, with modifications. Use a keto-friendly protein and replace the pasta with a low-carb vegetable like zucchini noodles.
- Can I add rice instead of pasta?
- Absolutely. Just adjust cooking time according to the type of rice you use.
- What toppings go well with this soup?
- Grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh herbs, or croutons make great toppings.
- How can I add more flavor to the soup?
- Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary, a splash of wine, or a parmesan cheese rind while simmering.
- Can I use water instead of broth?
- You can, but broth adds more flavor. Consider using a bouillon cube with water as a substitute.
- What kind of tomatoes should I use?
- Diced canned tomatoes work best for convenience and consistency, but fresh tomatoes can also be used when in season.
- Can I make this soup creamier?
- Yes, add a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a richer texture.
- Is it necessary to sauté the vegetables first?
- Sautéing enhances the flavor but you can skip this step and add everything directly to the pot for a true dump-and-go version.
- How do I make the soup less watery?
- Simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid, or add less broth initially.
- Can I add beans to the soup?
- Yes, beans like kidney, black, or cannellini make great additions for extra protein and fiber.
- What can I serve with “Busy Day Soup”?
- It pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or garlic toast.
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Absolutely, frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and work well in this recipe.
- How can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
- Use the sauté function for the base ingredients, then add the rest and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, adding pasta at the end if using.
- Is this soup good for meal prep?
- Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep as it stores and reheats well.
- Can I add seafood instead of meat?
- Yes, but add it towards the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- How can I make this soup more filling?
- Increase the amount of protein or pasta, or serve with a side of bread.
- What if I don’t have dried herbs?
- Fresh herbs work great but add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
