Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms

Warm up your evenings with a bowl of Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms. This hearty and healthy dish is perfect for those looking for a low-carb, flavorful meal. Packed with a variety of vegetables and a kick of spice, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Originating from the need for comfort and nourishment, vegetable soups have been a staple in many cultures. This particular variation, with its inclusion of zucchini noodles, offers a modern twist, providing a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta. The addition of mushrooms adds a rich, umami flavor, making this soup both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients for Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped (150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (150g)
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced (150g)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced (200g)
• 2 celery stalks, sliced (100g)
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (300g)
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 litre vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Instructions for Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add Bell Peppers, Carrots, and Celery: Stir in the red and yellow bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Incorporate the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the Spices: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili flakes. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
6. Pour in the Liquids: Add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Add Zucchini Noodles: Stir in the spiralized zucchini noodles and let them cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
8. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

How to Store and Reheat Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until it reaches your desired temperature. If the zucchini noodles become too soft, you can add fresh spiralized noodles when reheating.

Nutritional Information for Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms

• Calories: 150 kcal per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 12g
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQ about the Spicy Vegetable Soup with Zucchini Noodles and Mushrooms

Can I use other vegetables in this soup? Yes, you can customize the soup with your favorite vegetables. Spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes would be great additions.

Is this soup very spicy? The soup has a moderate level of spice. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, if you like it hotter, feel free to add more.

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze the soup without the zucchini noodles and add them fresh when reheating.

What can I use instead of zucchini noodles? If you’re not a fan of zucchini noodles, you can use any type of pasta or rice. Just cook them separately and add them to the soup before serving.