Vegetable Soup with Paprika

A vibrant, warming soup made with a medley of fresh vegetables and flavored with smoked or sweet paprika. This fiber-rich and antioxidant-packed dish supports immunity, heart health, and digestive wellness.

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
• 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1 cup no-salt-added canned tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or filtered water
• 1 cup shredded kale or spinach (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional for brightness)

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Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics:
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add vegetables and paprika:
   Stir in carrots, red bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in paprika, cumin (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add broth and simmer:
   Pour in the broth and add tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Finish the soup:
   Stir in shredded greens during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning and add lemon juice if desired.
5. Serve hot.
   Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if available.

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Estimated Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Approximate Amount
Calories	160 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbohydrates	22 g
Fiber	7 g
Fat	5 g
Sodium	~250 mg (varies with broth)

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Evidence-Based Health Benefits

1. Paprika is rich in antioxidants:
Paprika contains vitamin A, beta-carotene, and capsanthin, which help reduce inflammation and support immune health.
Source: Hwang ES, Molecules, 2017.

2. High in dietary fiber:
This vegetable-rich soup helps regulate digestion and supports heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol.
Source: Slavin JL, Nutrition, 2013.

3. Supports hydration and electrolyte balance:
Soups made with potassium-rich vegetables and broth help maintain hydration and electrolyte levels.
Source: Maughan RJ, British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2010.

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Tips for Best Results

• Flavor boost: Use smoked paprika for a deeper, wood-fired flavor; sweet paprika works well for a milder version.
• Texture variation: Blend half the soup and mix it back in for a creamy consistency without cream.
• Storage: This soup keeps well refrigerated for 4 days or frozen for 2 months.
• Add protein: Include chickpeas, white beans, or lentils for a more filling meal.