This Chopt Soup Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a warm, hearty, and nutrient-packed meal. Inspired by the fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients from Chopt restaurants, this soup is easy to make at home and fully customizable. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a cozy dinner, or something to meal prep for the week, this recipe has you covered.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to create a flavorful soup base packed with fresh vegetables, protein, and your favorite toppings. The best part? You can tweak it to fit your dietary preferences, making it as light or indulgent as you like. Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients for Chopt Soup Recipe
To make this delicious and hearty Chopt Soup, you’ll need a combination of fresh vegetables, protein, and flavorful seasonings. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences!
The Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
The Broth:
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice for a heartier option)
For Protein (Optional):
- 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup diced tofu, pan-fried or baked
Optional Toppings and Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
- Crumbled feta cheese or Parmesan
- Toasted nuts or seeds for crunch (like sunflower seeds or slivered almonds)
These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful, hearty soup that’s perfect for any season.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chopt Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Vegetables
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and chopped kale (or spinach). Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Protein and Grains
After the soup has simmered, stir in the cooked quinoa and your protein of choice, such as shredded chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the additions through.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. I love adding fresh parsley or cilantro, a sprinkle of feta cheese, and a handful of toasted seeds for a crunchy finish. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Chopt Soup
- Use Fresh, Seasonal Vegetables
The beauty of this soup is its versatility. Swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, green beans, or even corn can be excellent additions. - Layer the Seasoning
Add spices and salt gradually throughout the cooking process to build depth of flavor. Seasoning the aromatics, vegetables, and broth ensures a well-balanced, flavorful soup. - Let the Soup Simmer
Simmering the soup for at least 15 minutes helps meld the flavors together. If you have extra time, let it simmer a little longer for an even richer taste. - Choose the Right Protein
Whether you use shredded chicken, chickpeas, or tofu, make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the soup. This saves time and ensures the protein blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. - Add Acid for Brightness
A splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar at the end enhances the flavors and balances the richness of the soup. Don’t skip this step—it makes a huge difference! - Customize the Grains
While quinoa adds a light, nutty flavor, you can substitute it with rice, barley, or even small pasta shapes like orzo. Choose the grain that best fits your preference. - Garnish Like a Pro
Garnishes can elevate the soup both visually and flavor-wise. Fresh herbs, crumbled cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil give your soup a polished, restaurant-quality finish. - Store for Later
This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to enjoy again.
Serving Suggestions for Chopt Soup Recipe
This Chopt Soup Recipe is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides and toppings can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas:
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For a unique option, try this cottage cheese bread recipe—its soft, savory texture pairs beautifully with soup.
- Add a side salad for a fresh contrast. A light, tangy salad with leafy greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette would complement the heartiness of the soup perfectly.
- Top with roasted vegetables or croutons for added texture. For something fun and creative, consider adding these crispy salmon bites as a protein-packed garnish.
- Pair with a warm drink like herbal tea or hot cider for a cozy, comforting meal. This pairing works especially well on chilly evenings.
- Make it part of a dinner spread by serving the soup with sides like this hearty beef shank recipe or a light pasta dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a gourmet finish. This simple addition can take the soup from casual to elegant.
These serving suggestions turn this already delicious Chopt Soup Recipe into a complete and unforgettable meal. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or a crisp salad, it’s sure to be a hit!
Nutritional Benefits of Chopt Soup
This Chopt Soup Recipe is not just flavorful but also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome and satisfying meal. Here’s why it’s a great choice for your health:
- First and foremost, the variety of fresh vegetables provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Ingredients like kale, carrots, and zucchini are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.
- Additionally, the protein options—whether chicken, chickpeas, or tofu—make the soup filling and nourishing. Protein is essential for muscle repair and maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
- Quinoa or rice adds a healthy dose of complex carbohydrates, which give you sustained energy without causing blood sugar spikes. Quinoa, in particular, is a great source of plant-based protein and essential amino acids.
- Moreover, the use of olive oil as the base fat adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.
- Finally, the low-sodium vegetable broth and natural seasonings keep the dish flavorful while avoiding excessive salt. This makes it a healthier alternative to store-bought soups, which are often high in sodium.
In summary, this Chopt Soup Recipe combines fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients to create a meal that is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. It’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking a balanced, hearty, and satisfying dish.
Variants of Chopt Soup Recipe
One of the best parts of this Chopt Soup Recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily adapt it to fit your cravings or dietary preferences. Here are some exciting variations to try:
1. Creamy Chopt Soup
To make your soup rich and velvety, swap the broth for a mix of vegetable stock and coconut milk or heavy cream. Additionally, blend half the soup with an immersion blender to create a creamy base while keeping some chunky vegetables intact.
2. Spicy Chopt Soup
If you love a little heat, simply add red chili flakes, sriracha, or a dash of cayenne pepper. Furthermore, garnishing with fresh jalapeño slices and a drizzle of chili oil will take the spice level up a notch.
3. Mediterranean-Inspired Chopt Soup
For a lighter, zesty variation, use chickpeas as your primary protein and season the soup with oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice. In addition, garnishing with crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives will bring authentic Mediterranean flavors to your bowl.
4. Protein-Packed Chopt Soup
If you want to make this soup more filling, consider adding shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, or cooked lentils. Moreover, tossing in quinoa or barley will increase the soup’s heartiness and nutritional value.
5. Vegan Chopt Soup
To keep things plant-based, substitute vegetable broth for the base and use cashew cream or nutritional yeast for added richness. Additionally, tofu, tempeh, or beans make excellent protein replacements.
6. Asian-Inspired Chopt Soup
For an umami-packed variation, include ginger, soy sauce, and a splash of sesame oil. Furthermore, adding bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, and rice noodles transforms it into a complete Asian-inspired meal.
7. Tex-Mex Chopt Soup
If you’re in the mood for bold flavors, stir in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Additionally, seasoning with cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika gives the soup a Tex-Mex twist. Finally, top it off with shredded cheddar, avocado slices, and crispy tortilla strips for the ultimate finish.
With these variations, you can easily transform this Chopt Soup Recipe into a new favorite every time you make it. Whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, or packed with bold flavors, there’s an option here for everyone!
Conclusion: Make This Chopt Soup Recipe Your Own
In conclusion, this Chopt Soup Recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and optional proteins, it’s a healthy and satisfying choice for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends.
Additionally, the flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you make it creamy, spicy, or packed with Tex-Mex flavors, there’s no limit to the ways you can enjoy this soup.
Finally, don’t forget to experiment with garnishes like fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or crunchy toppings to elevate your bowl. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, grab a pot, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful soup made just the way you like it.
Happy cooking!
FAQs About Chopt Soup Recipe
1. How to make soup thick and creamy?
To make your soup thick and creamy, you can use a variety of techniques. One easy method is to blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and then stir it back in. Adding ingredients like heavy cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of sour cream will also add richness. For a dairy-free option, try blending in a cooked potato or some cashews for natural creaminess.
2. How do you make boring soup better?
To liven up a boring soup, start by adjusting the seasoning. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar can brighten the flavors instantly. Adding fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill at the end gives the soup a vibrant lift. Don’t forget toppings—like croutons, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil—to add texture and interest.
3. How do you transform soup?
Transform your soup by customizing it with new flavors and ingredients. Adding a protein, such as shredded chicken, chickpeas, or tofu, can make it heartier. You can also toss in a handful of cooked grains like quinoa or rice. To elevate the flavor, try blending roasted vegetables into the soup base or incorporating bold spices like smoked paprika or curry powder.
4. How to spice up soup?
To spice up your soup, use bold seasonings and aromatics. Ingredients like chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cumin can add warmth and depth. A swirl of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper provides a fiery kick. Don’t forget about fresh herbs, garlic, and ginger to create a well-rounded flavor profile. For even more excitement, garnish with crunchy toppings like roasted seeds or crispy croutons.
