There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Get Well Soup when you’re feeling under the weather. I remember the first time my mom made it for me – I was home sick with the flu, curled up on the couch, and the aroma of simmering vegetables and herbs wafted through the house, instantly lifting my spirits. As she carefully ladled the steaming broth into a bowl, I could already feel the comforting warmth spreading through me.
That’s the magic of Get Well Soup – it’s not just a meal, it’s a hug in a bowl. The combination of nourishing ingredients like chicken, veggies, and greens, infused with soothing herbs, creates a dish that’s not only delicious, but also packed with the nutrients your body craves when you’re fighting off an illness. It’s the ultimate restorative food, and I’ve turned to it time and time again whenever I’m feeling under the weather.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it with chicken or keep it vegetarian, you can load it up with all your favorite veggies, and you can even customize it to your dietary needs. It’s the kind of soup that’s always there for you, no matter what you’re going through. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Get Well Soup to help you on the road to recovery.
Why This Get Well Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Get Well Soup
This Get Well Soup recipe is truly special because it’s been perfected over the years to deliver the ultimate comfort and nourishment. The secret lies in the carefully selected ingredients and the way they’re prepared. By sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery first, we unlock a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from simply throwing everything in the pot at once. And the addition of the bay leaf and dried thyme adds a subtle complexity that really makes this soup stand out.
But what really sets this recipe apart is the way the ingredients work together to support your body’s natural healing process. The chicken broth provides a soothing, hydrating base, while the veggies and greens deliver a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. And the optional shredded chicken adds a boost of protein to help keep you feeling full and nourished.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Get Well Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is the foundation for the soup, helping to sauté the aromatics and infuse the broth with flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Onions add a sweet, savory depth of flavor and help build the soup’s base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a natural antibiotic and immune-booster, making it a must-have in any Get Well Soup.
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other nutrients that support the immune system.
- 2 stalks celery, sliced: Celery adds crunch, flavor, and hydrating properties to the soup.
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The broth is the heart of the soup, providing a soothing, nourishing base.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (optional): The protein in the chicken helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Peas are a great source of vitamin C, which can help fight off infection.
- 1 cup frozen corn: Corn adds sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach: Leafy greens are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your overall health.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help soothe a sore throat.
- 1 bay leaf: Bay leaves add a subtle, earthy flavor that ties the whole soup together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Get Well Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Get Well Soup
To make this nourishing Get Well Soup, you’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time, for a total of 45 minutes. You’ll want to have a large pot or Dutch oven on hand, as well as a few basic kitchen tools like a cutting board, knife, and spoon.
1- Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and starts to develop a slight golden color.
2- Next, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3- Now, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4- Pour in the 8 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5- If you’re using the shredded cooked chicken, stir it in now, along with the frozen peas and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, just until the chicken is heated through and the peas and corn are tender.
6- Finally, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the greens are wilted. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then ladle it into bowls and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a combination of chicken and vegetable broth for the best flavor and nutrition. The chicken broth provides a soothing, comforting base, while the veggie broth adds extra vitamins and minerals.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. Caukon, broccoli, or even sweet potatoes would all make great additions to this soup.
- For an extra boost of protein, consider adding a can of white beans or a handful of cooked lentils along with the chicken.
- If you’re not a fan of kale or spinach, try using Swiss chard or collard greens instead. They all provide a similar nutritional profile.
- Make a big batch of this soup and freeze portions for easy reheating when you’re under the weather. The flavors will only improve over time.
- Don’t be afraid to customize the seasoning to your taste. Some people like a little extra thyme or a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
Serving and Storing Your Get Well Soup
Perfect Pairings for Get Well Soup
This Get Well Soup is the perfect meal on its own, but it can also be accompanied by a few delicious pairings. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. The soup’s comforting flavors pair beautifully with the crunch of fresh bread or the freshness of a salad.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try pairing the soup with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of ginger ale. The soothing, hydrating properties of the tea or ginger ale will complement the soup perfectly.
And don’t forget to consider the occasion. This Get Well Soup is the perfect dish to serve when someone is under the weather, as it’s nourishing and comforting. But it can also be enjoyed as a cozy, family-friendly meal any time of year. With this recipe, you’ll have 6 servings to share with your loved ones.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Get Well Soup is that it’s easy to make ahead and store for later. Once the soup has cooled completely, you can transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until it’s steaming hot.
For longer-term storage, you can also freeze this soup. Once cooled, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
The great thing about this soup is that it actually gets better with time, as the flavors have a chance to meld and develop. So feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it over the course of a few days or weeks.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Get Well Soup
Creative Get Well Soup Variations
While this classic Get Well Soup recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a heartier version, you can add cooked rice, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. This will turn the soup into more of a stew-like consistency, perfect for a main course.
If you’re craving a bit of spice, try stirring in a teaspoon or two of curry powder, cumin, or smoked paprika. You can also top the soup with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
For a seasonal twist, try using roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes instead of the carrots and celery. The natural sweetness of the squash or sweet potatoes will complement the savory broth beautifully.
And if you’re in the mood for something a little more herbal, try swapping the dried thyme for fresh rosemary or a combination of thyme and oregano.
Making Get Well Soup Diet-Friendly
This Get Well Soup recipe is already quite versatile, but it can also be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free broth and skip the optional chicken. You can also substitute the frozen peas and corn for other non-starchy veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can omit the corn and peas and add extra leafy greens like spinach or kale. You can also use a bone broth instead of regular chicken or vegetable broth for an extra nutrient boost.
For a vegan or vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken and skip the optional chicken. You can also add in some extra protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, or tofu.
No matter your dietary needs, this Get Well Soup recipe can be easily customized to fit your lifestyle and keep you feeling nourished and comforted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?
A: Absolutely! This Get Well Soup recipe works great with either chicken or vegetable broth. Use whichever you have on hand or prefer.
Q: How long does this soup take to make?
A: This Get Well Soup recipe has a total time of 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead. Once cooled, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Get Well Soup recipe yields 6 servings.
Q: What should I do if the soup turns out too thick or too thin?
A: If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more broth or water. If it’s too thin, you can let it simmer for a bit longer to allow the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate.
Get Well Soup
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This nourishing Get Well Soup is packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful broth to help soothe and restore when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s a comforting classic that’s quick and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (optional)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
5. If using, add the cooked chicken.
6. Stir in the peas, corn, kale or spinach, thyme, and bay leaf.
7. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour mixed with a bit of broth.
– Try adding other veggies like potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms.
– Garnish with crusty bread, crackers, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Salads & Soups Starters
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Get Well Soup recipe is truly a game-changer when it comes to nourishing and comforting your body during times of illness. The carefully selected ingredients work together to provide a soothing, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for sipping on while you’re curled up on the couch.
What I love most about this soup is how versatile it is. You can customize it to your dietary needs, experiment with different flavor profiles, and even make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. And the best part? It’s so easy to prepare, with just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time.
So the next time you’re feeling under the weather, or even if you just want a cozy, comforting meal, be sure to give this Get Well Soup a try. I guarantee it’ll become your new go-to recipe for nourishing your body and soul. Let me know how you enjoy it!
