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Sometimes all that I want on a blustery winter day is a warm bowl of soup and a piece of homemade bread. However, that is a little too much work after a long day of work and home responsibilities. So, the bread gets picked up from the deli on the way home and the soup is cooked in 12 minutes on the stove.

And I have to do my own dishes and I shop on a budget, I might not have tons of exotic fresh vegetables and I certainly don't want to haul out the food processor, blender, or mixer to make a quick meal.

So, these quick and easy soup recipes call for some basic ingredients, and if you have the extra ingredients on hand, you can feel free to add them. Also, all you need is a soup pot, cutting board, chopping knife, and a spoon to stir.

Healthy Veggie Soup in 12 Minutes

4 c. vegetable broth (or 4 cups water and enough bullion to make 4 cups)
1 large potato, cubed
2 carrots, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 large onion, chopped

extras:
1/2 c. chopped mushrooms (any type)
1/2 c. zucchini, halved and sliced
1/4 tsp. parsley

1. Put the pan on medium high heat and while it is heating up add a thin coat of veggie or olive oil to the bottom, and throw in the onions.

2. Let the onions soften and brown as the pan continues to heat. When the onions are soft, add the broth (or water and bullion), and while it is heating up, you can chop the potato.

3. When the broth is boiling, add the potato, and then start chopping celery, carrots, and any extras you have on hand.

4. You might need to turn down the heat to keep the pot at a medium boil, and then add all of the other veggies.

5. Cook for about 5-7 more minutes, until the potatoes and carrots are at a desired softness. Add salt/pepper/spices to taste

Potato Soup for the Overstressed Soul

While it would be great to make potato soup from scratch, it takes time, which is often in short supply. This soup can be made in minutes and is delicious, comforting, and filling.

1 c. instant potatoes
1/4 c. chopped celery
1/4 c. diced onion (or green onions)
4 c. 2% milk (or 3 cups milk and 1 cup cream, for those with healthy arteries)
2 1/2 tbs. butter or margarine.

1. Put the pan on medium heat and add the butter, and allow it to melt.

2. Add the onion and celery and saut until very soft

3. Add the milk and stir and heat until it is almost boiling.

4. Remove from heat, add potato flakes, salt and pepper to taste, and stir well until mixed.

Consider adding a little shredded cheese (sharp cheddar, Parmesan, etc) to the soup while it is heating for extra flavor. Also, try seasoning with paprika or a tiny pinch of curry powder for a different taste. Also, you can add more or less potato flakes if you want a different texture

Hopefully these recipes will help you get a meal ready quickly after a long day, and by spending only a few minutes cooking, maybe you'll get to sit down and take a little extra time to savor your dinner.

Learn more about this author, Jody Barnes.
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