Step 1

(See recipes notes for Instant Pot & Slow Cooker directions)

Step 2

To a large soup pot add the oil. Heat over medium heat until hot, then add the onion, carrots and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes until it is smelling fragrant and the onion is translucent. If cooking oil-free use a few tablespoons of water to saute with instead of the oil.

Step 3

Add the garlic and let it cook for a minute or 2 stirring frequently.

Step 4

Then add everything else except the lemon juice. If using optional seasonal veggies, only add them now if they are sturdier vegetables that need a lot of cooking like squash and sweet potato. Leave more delicate vegetables like peas, greens, corn and asparagus until near the end.

Step 5

Give it a good stir and bring to a simmer. Keep it simmering gently for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the potato and carrots are tender. The time will vary slightly depending on how large/small the vegetable pieces are cut.If using the optional seasonal, frozen or canned vegetables add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking time.

Step 6

Turn off the heat and with an immersion blender straight in the pot, give it 3 or 4 short blasts to partially blend and thicken the soup. If you don't have an immersion blender, scoop out 2 or 3 cups and blend in a regular blender then add back to the pot. If you prefer a brothier soup skip this part.

Step 7

Squeeze in the lemon juice, give it a good stir and serve immediately.