Million Dollar Soup

As the chill of autumn deepens and the leaves turn, I find myself craving comfort in a bowl. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm soup that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Enter the Million Dollar Soup—an unassuming name for a dish that promises not only warmth but a burst of delightful flavors. Growing up, my favorite family memories were often anchored around the kitchen, where my mom would whip up hearty soups that left our home filled with comforting aromas. This recipe, with its vibrant mix of vegetables, beans, and spices, takes me back to those cherished moments.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Duration: 45 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 6
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 220
• Protein: 11 grams
• Carbs: 35 grams
• Fats: 4 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Sugars: 4 grams
• Sodium: 450 mg

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Soup

What makes this soup stand out is its versatility combined with hearty nutrition. Bursting with beans and vegetables, it’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. The interplay of Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and fresh greens makes each spoonful a comforting experience, while the beans provide plant-based protein and fiber that will keep you satisfied. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up whatever you might have in the fridge!

The Complete Cooking Journey

Let’s take a step-by-step journey through the process of making this delightful soup. It’s straightforward, fun, and the end result is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1 cup cooked pasta (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Method:

### Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

### Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent.

### Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

### Step 4: Mix the Vegetables

Add the diced carrot, celery, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.

### Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, and then add the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine.

### Step 6: Add Beans and Corn

Add the kidney beans, black beans, and corn to the pot. Mix well.

### Step 7: Season the Soup

Season the soup with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil.

### Step 8: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

### Step 9: Finalize with Greens and Pasta

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cooked pasta, if using. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.

### Step 10: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Million Dollar Soup can be enjoyed on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, pair it with a crunchy baguette or a crispy green salad. The richness of the soup complements a light, refreshing salad, making it a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes beautifully—just be sure to leave out any pasta if you’re freezing it, as it can become mushy upon reheating. Freeze for up to 3 months, and simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Don’t worry if you’re missing any of the veggies; swap in what you have on hand!
• For extra depth of flavor, sauté a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the onions.
• If you prefer, this soup can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by ensuring the broth is vegetable-based.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Add in diced zucchini or yellow squash for extra veggie goodness. Want some heat? Toss in a diced jalapeño or use spicy Italian seasoning. You could also add cooked quinoa or lend it an international twist with Thai curry paste for a different flavor profile altogether.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. What can I use instead of beans?
   You can use lentils, chickpeas, or even some cooked quinoa if you want a different texture.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. What if I don’t have any fresh greens?
   No worries! You can use frozen spinach or kale; just stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.

4. Can I make this soup spicier?
   Yes! Add some crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

5. Is there a way to make this soup creamy?
   For a creamy version, blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in, or add a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.

Wrapping Up

I hope you join me in creating this comforting bowl of Million Dollar Soup. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a vessel for warmth, love, and nourished connections with family and friends. This dish has the power to turn a simple dinner into a cherished memory, just like the ones from my childhood. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen—one delicious bowl at a time!

Print