Looking for a comforting meal that’s both simple and healthy? You’ll love my Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Quinoa Soup! With fresh veggies and bright lemon flavor, this soup is easy to make and perfect for any day. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the work. Before you know it, you’ll have a warm, tasty dish that’s great for lunch or dinner. Let’s jump in!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking easy and fun. Here’s what you need for Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Quinoa Soup:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon slices for garnish
Each ingredient adds its own flavor. Quinoa gives the soup a nice base. Onions and garlic bring warmth and depth. Carrots and celery add crunch and sweetness. The diced tomatoes and broth create a rich, savory taste. Fresh lemon juice brightens the soup, making it refreshing. Don’t forget the herbs! Thyme and oregano boost the aroma.
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh parsley gives a nice finish, and lemon slices add a pretty touch. Gather these items, and you’re ready to start cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
First, rinse the quinoa under cold water. This step removes the bitter taste. It helps the quinoa taste fresh and clean. Next, dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Use a sharp knife for even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves to release their strong flavor.
Slow Cooking Process
In your slow cooker, combine the rinsed quinoa with the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Add the can of diced tomatoes, juice included. This adds richness and color to the soup. Pour in six cups of vegetable broth. Stir in dried thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Add salt to taste. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for six to eight hours. If you are pressed for time, you can use high heat for three to four hours.
Finalizing the Soup
About 20 to 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh lemon juice. This brightens the flavors and adds a fresh zing. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once cooked, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Soup
To get the best texture from quinoa, rinse it well. This removes bitterness. When cooked, it should be fluffy and tender. If you want more flavor, try to adjust the seasoning. Add salt or pepper to suit your taste.
Enhancing Flavor
Herbs and spices are key to this soup. Fresh parsley adds brightness. You can also try basil or dill for a twist. If you want more depth, add thyme and oregano. For extra nutrition, toss in some spinach or kale. These greens cook down well.
Speeding Up the Process
Using pre-cooked quinoa can save time. You can add it in the last hour of cooking. This way, you avoid overcooking. For quick prep, chop your veggies in advance. Store them in the fridge to use later. This makes getting dinner on the table so easy!
Variations
Different Protein Additions
You can change the protein in your soup to fit your taste. Adding beans or lentils makes it hearty and rich in nutrients. For example, one can of chickpeas adds great texture and flavor. If you like meat, consider adding cooked chicken. Simply shred it and stir it in before serving. You can also use tofu for a plant-based option. Just cube the tofu and add it in when you mix the other ingredients.
Alternative Vegetable Options
Feel free to swap out the veggies. If you don’t like carrots, try peas or bell peppers instead. You can even use leafy greens like spinach or kale. Seasonal vegetables work well too. In the fall, add diced squash or sweet potatoes. In the summer, zucchini or corn brighten the soup. This way, you can keep the soup fresh and exciting with each season.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, this soup is already perfect. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities. For vegan adjustments, ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based. You can also add more herbs for flavor without adding animal products. This soup is versatile, so you can easily adjust it to fit your diet. Enjoy it your way!
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store your soup well, let it cool first. You want to keep it fresh. Use airtight containers to avoid spills. Glass jars or plastic containers work great. Make sure to label them with the date. This way, you will know when to use them.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your soup, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. Seal them tightly to keep air out. When you want to eat it, take it out and place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. For quick reheating, you can microwave it in a safe bowl.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your soup lasts about 4 to 5 days. If you freeze it, it stays good for about 2 to 3 months. Always check for any changes in smell or color before using. Enjoy your tasty slow cooker lemon herb quinoa soup anytime!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Quinoa Soup?
It takes about 15 minutes to prep the soup. You can cook it for 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat. The soup is ready when the quinoa is soft and the veggies are tender.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Start by sautéing the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery in a pot for about 5 minutes. Then, add in the rinsed quinoa and canned tomatoes with their juice. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring often. Stir in the lemon juice before serving.
What can I serve with Lemon Herb Quinoa Soup?
This soup pairs well with a salad or crusty bread. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette works great. You can also enjoy it with grilled cheese for a cozy meal. Another great option is a side of roasted vegetables for added flavor.
This blog post covered all you need to make delicious Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Quinoa Soup. We discussed the simple ingredients and clear steps to prepare it. I shared tips for flavor and variations to fit dietary needs. You learned how to store leftovers and reheat them later.
In closing, this soup is both nutritious and easy to make. It’s a great addition to any meal. Enjoy this warm dish with friends or family. You’ll love its zesty taste and comforting aroma. Get cooking and savor every bite!
