Olena Real Food Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
Olena Real Food Instant Pot Vegetable Soup: 40 min using Instant Pot. Veggies, tomatoes, kale; Global, medium dinner, serves 6; healthy & hearty.
- historical background and unique selling points of olena real food instant pot vegetable soup
- secrets behind perfect olena real food instant pot vegetable soup
- the magic behind this recipe
- health & nutrition highlights
- recipe at a glance : olena real food instant pot vegetable soup
- quality ingredients breakdown
- kitchen equipment essentials
- professional cooking guide
- expert kitchen wisdom
- perfect presentation
- storage & make - ahead
- creative variations
- expert faq solutions
- complete nutrition guide
- Recipe Card
historical background and unique selling points of olena real food instant pot vegetable soup
i remember the first time i tasted a hearty bowl of vegetable soup, and man, it took me back to my childhood, olena real food instant pot vegetable soup has its roots deeply interwoven with a rich culinary heritage that spans generations, you see, this soup...
this recipe’s history is as flavorful as its taste, each ingredient – from the extra - virgin olive oil to the fresh green beans – tells a story of necessity and innovation, of resourcefulness in kitchens around the world, my grandma, for instance, would always insist...
secrets behind perfect olena real food instant pot vegetable soup
what makes this soup truly extraordinary ? for me, it’s the way each spoonful tells a tale of rich culinary heritage and modern innovation, growing up, my family often experimented with unique flavor combinations in our soups, and i quickly learned that a dash of dried thyme or a sprinkle of basil could transform an ordinary meal into something magical, the secret here is blending these timeless traditions with a few modern - day tweaks that save plenty of time without trimming down on taste .
the fascinating origin story of this recipe connects past and present, i love sharing it with friends over dinner parties, explaining how simple ingredients once reserved for rustic kitchens have evolved into a gourmet delight, when you whip up a batch of olena real food instant...
the magic behind this recipe
i have to give a shout - out to the magic of flavor combinations in this recipe. the olena real food instant pot vegetable soup boasts a perfect harmony of ingredients that create a comforting and robust taste, one of my favorite steps is sautéing the onions and garlic until they become golden, releasing their aroma and setting the tone for the veggies to come, it’s not just about tossing ingredients in a pot; it’s a gentle process that draws out natural flavors and adds depth that makes every bite satisfying .
i learned early on that mastering a few expert - tested techniques can make all the difference, from the way you measure out the olive oil to the precise moment you add those light, fresh greens like kale or spinach – every detail counts, and hey,...
health & nutrition highlights
one of the best parts about this olena real food instant pot vegetable soup is how it manages to combine exceptional taste with wholesome nutrition, i’ve always been a sucker for meals that make you feel good inside and out, and this soup does just that, brimming with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s a go - to choice for anyone looking to maintain balanced nutrition without sacrificing flavor, even if you’re watching your calories or following a specific diet plan, the nutritional benefits here are hard to beat .
this delightful recipe offers a welcoming mix of dietary considerations – it’s low in sodium thanks to the choice of broth and it packs a mix of proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, i remember the first time i swapped my usual heavy dinner for something...
recipe at a glance : olena real food instant pot vegetable soup
if you’re pressed for time but still want a meal that packs a punch, this recipe is a lifesaver, with a total preparation time of just 15 minutes and about 20 minutes of cooking (pressure build - up and release included), you can have a nutritious meal ready in approximately 40 minutes, i can’t tell you how many times i’ve been impressed by how quickly this soup comes together a blessing on busy weeknights when every minute counts .
the skill level required is moderate, meaning it’s approachable for home cooks looking to experiment without getting overwhelmed, regardless of whether you’re a newbie or a more seasoned chef, you’ll find this recipe both accessible and enjoyable, serving about six generous bowls, it’s perfect for a...
every element, from the extra - virgin olive oil to the diced tomatoes, works in harmony, delivering a dish that’s as visually inviting as it is flavorful, i’ve learned that even the smallest adjustments like a splash more lemon juice or a smidgen of extra pepper...
i hope this introduction hooks you into the delightful world of olena real food instant pot vegetable soup, whether you’re rediscovering an old family favorite or exploring new life hacks in the kitchen, this recipe stands as a testament to the joy of cooking with passion and heart, enjoy every spoonful, and remember : a little imperfection in the kitchen makes the dish all the more real and memorable.
quality ingredients breakdown
premium core ingredients
when i first made my olena real food instant pot vegetable soup, i realized that quality ingredients make all the difference, i always measure out 2 tablespoons of extra - virgin olive oil, as it's important to use the best extra - virgin version available nothing...
beyond the basics, quality indicators include vibrant colors and firm textures, for instance, i select carrots and celery that are bright and crisp, when buying red potatoes, i stick to ones with smooth, unwrinkled skin for that extra fiber kick, and yes, sometimes i even add...
signature seasoning blend
for the seasoning blend, i keep it simple yet effective, i mix ½ teaspoon of dried thyme and ½ teaspoon of dried basil with a bay leaf these herbs create that enchanting aroma that makes the soup so inviting, i sometimes experiment by adding a pinch...
i also love tweaking my seasoning blend with other herbs like parsley or even a hint of oregano for a different twist, there’s something magical when the memory of your first homemade soup blends with these carefully chosen herbs, instantly warming you up inside, it reminds me of family dinners many years ago, where every ingredient shone in its own right .
smart substitutions
sometimes, life gets busy, and you might find yourself missing an ingredient, over the years, i’ve learned some neat swaps that work just as well without compromising flavor, if you lack extra - virgin olive oil, a high - quality vegetable or canola oil can be an acceptable alternative, or, instead of red potatoes, try using sweet potatoes for a subtly different taste and extra vitamins .
for those following dietary restrictions, you have options, substitute your regular broth with a low - sodium or homemade version to reduce salt content, and even the green beans can be swapped with snow peas if you want a crunchier element, i once mistakenly left out...
kitchen equipment essentials
every successful batch of olena real food instant pot vegetable soup begins with having the right kitchen tools, my trusty instant pot is the star here, along with a well - maintained inner pot and sealing ring, i never start cooking without a good stirring spoon, a sharp knife, and a sturdy cutting board in my experience, proper tools make for easy prepping and safe chopping, over time, i added a vegetable peeler and a fine grater to my arsenal, which are really helpful when preparing fresh veggies .
i recommend having an extra - large spoon or ladle ready for stirring and serving, investing in a good quality instant pot really changed my cooking game, as it makes pressure cooking a breeze, and if you’re like me and sometimes forget minor accessories, always double - check your kitchen drawer for a handy measuring cup set and a reliable colander, perfect for washing those fresh ingredients .
pro ingredient tips
one tip that came from a few cooking mishaps (oops, i almost over - salted the soup once.) is to taste as you go, i always keep a spice jar close by, so a little pinch here or there can make a huge difference without overshooting the perfect balance, for storage, place unopened canned tomatoes in a cool cabinet, and always refrigerate fresh vegetables as soon as you get home from the store this helps maintain their crispness and flavor .
i’ve found that saving a bit of money is all about buying in bulk and then pre - chopping vegetables on a sunday afternoon, not only does this make me feel proud of my kitchen prep skills, but it also saves time during those busy weeknights,...
each tip i share comes from real - life kitchen adventures, where the goal is always to create a delicious, warming bowl of soup that feels like home, remember, it’s all about the love and care you put into each ingredient, whether you’re following the recipe to a t or simply adding your own twist, enjoy the process, learn from every mistake, and savor every spoonful as it brings comfort to your day .
professional cooking guide
essential preparation steps
before i even turn on my instant pot, i like to lay everything out, it’s all about mise en place : chopping a medium yellow onion into diced pieces, peeling and dicing two medium carrots, and cutting two celery stalks and two red potatoes, yes, i...
professional cooking method
once all your ingredients are at hand, it’s time to cook, i start by setting my instant pot to “sauté” mode and heating the olive oil for about 1 minute, i add the diced yellow onion and let it soften for 2–3 minutes until it becomes...
i add the carrots, celery, red potatoes, and even the optional zucchini, they’re stirred in for another 2 minutes, so the veggies pick up the garlic and onions’ aroma, i also sprinkle in ½ teaspoon each of dried thyme and basil, add the bay leaf, and...
expert techniques
the secret to perfect olena real food instant pot vegetable soup is in the details, i like to secure the instant pot lid ensuring the pressure valve is set to “sealing” and then switch to “manual” or “pressure cook” mode, i set the timer to 8...
temperature control during pressure cooking and a keen eye on the natural release process are critical steps, i check that the veggies are just right zesty and not mushy, when i open the lid, i let the warmth carry over and add 1 cup of frozen peas, they warm up beautifully in the soup’s residual heat without losing their snap, it’s these simple yet effective methods i rely on that elevate the soup every time .
success strategies
i always finish my olena real food instant pot vegetable soup with a few extra touches, after tasting, i adjust salt (starting with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper is a good guideline) and add a splash of lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon) for brightness, in my early tries, i accidentally over - salted the soup, but now i always taste before serving, and that saved me more than once.
now here’s a little troubleshooting tip : if your soup turns out a bit bland, stir in a tablespoon of extra - virgin olive oil or an extra pinch of herbs, when you drizzle a little extra olive oil or sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper on top, you know you’ve reached quality assurance, i sometimes add ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley for a burst of fresh herb flavor this final garnish always makes the dish look as good as it tastes .
i learned that organization and timing are essential for perfect results, and each step matters, i’m often reminded of my first time using an instant pot while making this; i was so nervous about pressure release that i almost missed the natural release step, now, with experience and a few happy mistakes along the way, the process is second nature .
enjoy your hearty and nutritious bowl of olena real food instant pot vegetable soup, a perfect blend of fresh veggies, aromatic spices, and comforting textures that make every spoonful a delight, this recipe is a cozy, real food favorite that i love sharing with friends and family on chilly days, making even a simple meal feel like a warm hug .
expert kitchen wisdom
i’ve learned a lot about cooking in my years of fumbling in the kitchen especially with recipes like olena real food instant pot vegetable soup, one major insight is that a good kitchen technique is the secret sauce behind a memorable meal, sautéing onions and garlic until they’re golden really sets the stage, trust me, a little extra time spent on aromatics opens up flavors that might otherwise fall flat .
perfect presentation
plating can be as exciting as cooking itself, even if it’s just a cozy bowl of soup, i always enjoy adding a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of the olena real food instant pot vegetable soup to brighten it up visually, it’s all about those small touches that make the dish inviting, i sometimes experiment with a few edible flowers why not add a little charm when you serve up comfort in a bowl ?
storage & make - ahead
sometimes busy evenings force us to think ahead, so here’s what i do : make a big batch of olena real food instant pot vegetable soup and store the leftovers in airtight containers, you can safely keep it in the fridge for up to three days, when reheating, a quick spin in the microwave works wonders, but i sometimes prefer the stovetop for a more evenly warmed bowl oops, forgot to add that note earlier. just be sure to give it a stir to keep all those wonderful flavors mixed .
creative variations
one of my favorite parts about cooking is adapting recipes to match what i have on hand, when making olena real food instant pot vegetable soup, i might toss in a can of chickpeas for extra protein or a handful of lentils for a heartier bite, sometimes, during fall, i like to add a pinch of smoked paprika for a seasonal twist, even small changes bring new life to the dish and keep me excited every time i cook .
expert faq solutions
i get questions from friends who’ve tried my olena real food instant pot vegetable soup asking about texture and seasoning, many wonder if the vegetables will cook evenly trust me, uniform chopping really is key here. some have asked about substituting ingredients, and my advice is to experiment within reason, if something goes wrong, always adjust your seasonings and let the dish rest a minute before serving; you might just find it was perfectly fine all along .
complete nutrition guide
this hearty soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a nutritious powerhouse, per serving, you’re looking at roughly 165–180 kcal, with a good dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins from the veggies, i always appreciate how olena real food instant pot vegetable soup blends wholesome ingredients and natural flavors to keep meals both healthy and filling, remember to adjust your portion size based on your energy needs, so you can enjoy a full meal without feeling weighed down .
each time i whip up this soup, i’m reminded of the simple joys of cooking sometimes even a few hiccups (like overcooking a batch of kale) lead to lessons that improve the next pot, happy cooking and enjoy every warm, flavorful spoonful.
⚖️ Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium red potatoes, washed and diced (leave skin on for extra fiber)
- 1 small zucchini, diced (optional – for added texture)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed) or fresh spinach
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (start with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
🥄 Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment: Ensure your Instant Pot is clean and all accessories (inner pot, sealing ring, etc.) are in place. Have a stirring spoon, knife, and cutting board ready for chopping vegetables.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté mode and pour in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot (about 1 minute), add the diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, red potatoes, and zucchini (if using). Stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to mix with the aromatics and pick up flavor. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and basil, and add the bay leaf. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Add Liquids and Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine. Add the green beans and chopped kale (or spinach). Close the lid of the Instant Pot securely
- Step 5: Pressure Cook: Select Manual or Pressure Cook mode on the Instant Pot
- Step 6: Final Touches: Open the lid and immediately stir in the frozen peas (they will warm in the residual heat without becoming mushy). Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. If using, stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Step 7: Serve: Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls. Optionally, drizzle a little extra olive oil or sprinkle some freshly cracked pepper on top before serving.
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