Description
This Pearl Couscous Vegetable Soup is a hearty and wholesome meal perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tender pearl couscous, it’s simmered in a savory vegetable broth enhanced with fragrant herbs. The soup is easy to prepare, nutritious, and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
Dry Ingredients and Herbs
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Stir in diced carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften but still retain some firmness.
- Combine main ingredients: Stir in the pearl couscous, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes until the pearl couscous is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh herbal note and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a vegan and gluten-free option, ensure to use certified gluten-free pearl couscous or substitute with quinoa.
- You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for variation.
- Adjust herb quantities according to taste; fresh herbs can be used as a substitute for dried if preferred.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
