Name: Instant Pot Vegetable Soup Your Quick Path to Cozy Goodness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium for healthier option); 2 medium carrots (fresh preferred); 2 stalks celery (can substitute with bell peppers); 1 medium onion (yellow or white works); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 medium zucchini (cut into thick coins); 2 cups spinach (or kale, added before serving); 1 can diced tomatoes (canned for convenience); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 leaves bay leaves (remove before serving); to taste salt; to taste pepper

As I sliced into the juicy chicken, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sun-soaked Mediterranean market. This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with Broccoli and Feta is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful escape wrapped in a quick, nutritious package. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a colorful and healthy dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy feta. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to embrace fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a hearty, guilt-free dinner, this recipe fits the bill. Ready to discover how to create a bowl brimming with delightful textures and wholesome ingredients? Let’s dive in!

What makes this recipe a must-try?

Healthy and Wholesome: This Mediterranean Chicken Bowl is loaded with nutrients, combining lean protein, fresh veggies, and healthy fats for a balanced meal.

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.

Flavor Explosion: The tangy feta and garlic-infused chicken create a robust flavor profile that will leave your taste buds singing.

Versatile Options: Substitute ingredients like quinoa or chicken to fit your dietary preferences while still keeping it delicious. Consider trying it with Instant Pot Vegetable Soup for an easy side!

Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and satisfying textures, this dish will wow your family or guests, making it a favorite at gatherings.

Instant Pot Vegetable Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Vegetable Broth – This forms the flavorful base for the soup; you can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; fresh is preferred for the best texture.
• Celery – Provides crunch and a subtle flavor; feel free to swap for bell peppers if desired.
• Onion – Enhances the overall flavor; yellow or white onions work beautifully here.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic offers aromatic depth, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative.

For the Veggies
• Zucchini – Adds a tender texture; keep it in larger chunks to prevent mushiness during cooking.
• Spinach or Kale – A nutritional powerhouse; stir in just before serving to retain its vibrant green color.
• Tomatoes – Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience; they add acidity and richness to the soup.

For Seasoning
• Dried Oregano – Infuses classic Mediterranean flavors; adjust to taste for a stronger herby taste.
• Bay Leaves – Add depth to the flavor; remember to remove them before serving!
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; taste and adjust as needed.

This Instant Pot Vegetable Soup perfectly complements the Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with Broccoli and Feta, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal in no time!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by finely chopping the onion, carrots, and celery, ensuring a uniform size for quick cooking. Mince several cloves of garlic and slice the zucchini into thick coins to maintain texture. Gather your other ingredients like canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasonings—this makes it easy to transition smoothly into cooking your Instant Pot Vegetable Soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add a splash of olive oil, allowing it to heat for a minute. Toss in the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, stirring them frequently for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step lays the flavorful foundation for your vegetable soup, igniting a cozy aroma in your kitchen.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Next, pour in your vegetable broth, stirring to deglaze the pot and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add in the canned tomatoes, dried oregano, bay leaves, and zucchini. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference, mixing everything well to combine the flavors of the Instant Pot Vegetable Soup.

Step 4: Cook Under Pressure
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual pressure or soup setting and adjust the cooking time to 7 minutes at high pressure. As the Instant Pot comes to pressure, it will build up flavor, promising a deliciously hearty soup once done.

Step 5: Release the Pressure
Once the timer goes off, carefully switch the valve to venting for a quick release of steam. Once the pressure has fully released, remove the lid and stir in the spinach or kale, letting it wilt for a couple of minutes. The vibrant greens will add color and nutrition to your Instant Pot Vegetable Soup.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your delicious soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the Instant Pot Vegetable Soup into bowls, removing the bay leaves, and serve hot. For an extra touch, consider a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a delightful garnish!

Helpful Tricks for Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Prep Ahead: Gather and chop all your ingredients before you start cooking. This keeps the process smooth and efficient, ensuring you don’t forget anything essential for your Instant Pot Vegetable Soup.
Sauté for Flavor: Always sauté your aromatics like onions and garlic before adding liquid. This step enhances the flavor base significantly, giving your soup a richer taste.
Pressure Release: For best results, utilize a quick release for your Instant Pot after cooking. This retains the vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables in your soup.
Stay Flexible: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables based on what’s available. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, so make it your own!
Taste & Adjust: Don’t hesitate to taste your soup before serving. Season it well with salt and pepper to bring all those delicious flavors together in your Instant Pot Vegetable Soup.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with Broccoli and Feta

Set your table for a delightful feast, complementing the vibrant flavors and textures of your Mediterranean delight.

Creamy Hummus: This velvety dip adds richness; perfect for drizzling or spreading on warm pita bread alongside your meal.
Crispy Pita Chips: Their crunchy texture provides a wonderful contrast, perfect for scooping up the chicken and veggies while adding a satisfying crunch.
Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing side of finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat brightens the palette and enhances your Mediterranean experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized roasted carrots or bell peppers bring a beautiful depth of flavor that fits harmoniously with this dish.
Garlic Yogurt Sauce: A cool and tangy dip that elevates each bite with its creamy texture, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Red Wine: A smooth, fruity red wine complements the dish’s robust flavors while adding a touch of sophistication to your dinner table.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley of strawberries, oranges, and mint delivers a sweet, refreshing contrast to the savory bowl, pleasing to the eye and palate.
Olive Oil Cake: For a delightful finish, a light olive oil cake adds a moist sweetness, echoing the Mediterranean flavors in a whimsical way.
Instant Pot Vegetable Soup: Pair with this hearty, nourishing soup for a cozy and wholesome meal experience that echoes the fresh notes of the chicken bowl.

How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Vegetable Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain flavor and quality.

Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags for easy meals later; just make sure to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. Stir well and add a splash of broth or water if needed to restore creaminess.

Labeling: If freezing, label your containers with the date and contents. This makes it easier to plan meals and enjoy this delicious Instant Pot Vegetable Soup any time!

Instant Pot Vegetable Soup Variations

Feel free to personalize your soup experience with these delightful twists that elevate your bowl of cozy goodness.

Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or thyme before serving for an aromatic boost. These herbs bring a fragrant freshness that brightens up the hearty flavors.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to heat things up. This twist offers a delightful contrast that awakens your taste buds!
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a luscious finish. This will give your soup a rich, creamy texture without overpowering the fresh veggies.
Protein Power: Include beans, lentils, or shredded chicken for an extra protein punch. These additions not only make the soup heartier but also add wonderful textures to savor.
Cheesy Delight: Top with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta right before serving. This cheesy layer introduces a lovely saltiness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots.
Lean Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and flavor profile. These greens bring their own unique taste and add nutritional value to your soup.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to use seasonal veggies like asparagus or peas depending on what’s in season. This not only utilizes fresh produce but also keeps your soup vibrant and interesting.

Experimenting with these variations can turn the deliciousness of your Instant Pot Vegetable Soup into a new flavor experience each time you make it, ensuring you never tire of this cozy classic!

Make Ahead Options

These Mediterranean Chicken Bowls with Broccoli and Feta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken and chop the broccoli up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flavors meld beautifully and freshness is preserved. Cook the quinoa ahead of time as well, refrigerating it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the quinoa, steam the broccoli, and sauté the marinated chicken in a skillet until golden and cooked through. This way, you can enjoy a quick, nutritious dinner on busy weeknights without sacrificing taste or quality!

Instant Pot Vegetable Soup Recipe FAQs

What vegetables are best for this soup?
Absolutely! You can use a variety of vegetables based on your preference and what’s in season. Carrots, celery, and zucchini are excellent choices, but feel free to swap in bell peppers, peas, or even potatoes for added texture. Just make sure to maintain a balance of softer and firmer veggies to keep the soup hearty.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing the container to preserve the peak flavor and quality.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can! Portion the soup into individual freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Leave a little space in each container for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

How can I adjust the seasoning?
Great question! Always taste your soup before serving. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness. You can also sprinkle in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a flavor boost.

Is this soup suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Instant Pot Vegetable Soup is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring the broth is plant-based. It’s low in calories and can fit into gluten-free diets; just double-check your broth choice if you need to avoid gluten.

What should I serve with this soup?
The soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside the Mediterranean Chicken Bowl with Broccoli and Feta! This way, you can enjoy a delightful and wholesome duo that’s both comforting and nutritious.