Hearty One-Pot Vegetable and Barley Soup For Easy Meal Prep

 

Hearty One-Pot Vegetable and Barley Soup For Easy Meal Prep

This one-pot vegetable and barley soup is a nutritious and filling meal perfect for meal prep. Packed with a variety of vegetables and wholesome barley, it offers a delicious way to enjoy a healthy diet.

The recipe is simple and can be made in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. It's versatile, allowing you to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Comforting Ingredients

This vegetable and barley soup is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a nourishing meal.

Featuring pearl barley, a fantastic source of fiber, this soup is not only filling but also beneficial for digestive health. The addition of colorful vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers enhances both the visual appeal and nutritional value.

Each ingredient plays a role in delivering a rich flavor profile, making every spoonful satisfying and hearty.

Simple Preparation Steps

Preparing this soup is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Start by sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they soften. This step builds a flavorful base that sets the tone for the rest of the dish.

Once the vegetables are tender, add garlic, followed by the remaining ingredients. The soup simmers gently, allowing the barley to absorb the broth's flavors while the vegetables cook to perfection.

Customizable Recipe

One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.

For instance, adding spinach or kale can boost the nutrient content, while different herbs can introduce unique flavors. This adaptability makes it easy to enjoy throughout the seasons.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad, making it a complete meal that warms both the body and soul.

Storage and Meal Prep

This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for several days.

Leftovers can be reheated easily, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Health Benefits

Not only is this soup delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits. The combination of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while barley adds a hearty dose of fiber.

This makes it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. Enjoying a bowl of this soup can contribute to overall well-being while satisfying your hunger.

Easy One-Pot Vegetable and Barley Soup Recipe

A bowl of vegetable and barley soup with colorful vegetables, garnished with parsley, on a rustic kitchen table.

This soup features a medley of vegetables simmered with barley in a savory broth. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and serves 6 people, making it ideal for batch cooking.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, rinsed barley, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and basil. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
  6. Serve hot, and store leftovers in the refrigerator for easy meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 6 bowls
  • Calories: 180kcal
  • Fat: 5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g

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