If you’re craving a comforting, nourishing bowl that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious blend of fresh veggies, dairy-free creaminess, and fragrant herbs, all simmered to perfection for a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re a longtime soup lover or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this soup brings them all together in a silky, flavorful broth that delights the senses and warms the soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to a rich and flavorful Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role — from creating the perfect base to adding vibrant colors and layers of taste that make this soup truly shine.
- Olive oil: For sautéing vegetables gently and introducing a subtle fruity note.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Adds a warm, aromatic depth that builds the soup’s savory foundation.
- Medium white onion (chopped): Gives sweetness and texture as it softens and melds with other veggies.
- Carrots (3, chopped): Provide natural sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color.
- Celery stalks (4, chopped): Bring an earthy, aromatic crunch that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Corn (1/2 cup): Adds a touch of juicy sweetness and a sunny hue.
- Peas (1 cup): Give the soup a pop of freshness and vibrant green contrast.
- Nutritional yeast (3 tablespoons): Offers a cheesy, umami undertone while keeping it dairy-free.
- Vegetable broth (4 cups): The heart of the soup’s liquid base, enhancing every flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Helps thicken the soup for that luscious creamy consistency.
- Dairy-free butter (1/3 cup): Creates that rich, silky texture and a buttery flavor without dairy.
- Unsweetened dairy-free milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess while keeping the soup light and healthy.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all flavors to life.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and spice.
- Fresh rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a lovely piney aroma and earthiness.
- Fresh oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a subtle herbal brightness.
- Fresh thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Brings delicate floral notes to round out the herb profile.
- Chickpeas or white beans (1 cup, optional): Introduce extra protein and a creamy texture, perfect if you want a heartier soup.
How to Make Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and salt. Cook everything gently for about five minutes until the vegetables become tender and release their natural sweetness. This step is crucial to develop the base flavor and soften the veggies just right.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Add the dairy-free butter to the softened vegetables and stir until it melts completely. Then sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to combine. This will form a roux, which is the magic that thickens your soup later on and gives it that lovely creamy texture you’re after.
Step 3: Add Broth and Herbs
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Then season the soup by adding black pepper and fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing those fragrant herbs to open up and infuse the broth with their lovely aromas.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer softly, stirring frequently to avoid sticking or burning. This stage lets the soup thicken naturally and lets the flavors meld together beautifully — patience here rewards you with that irresistible creamy base.
Step 5: Add Peas, Corn, Nutritional Yeast, Milk, and Beans
Finally, stir in the peas, corn, nutritional yeast, and dairy-free milk for a burst of sweetness, umami, and a smooth, luscious finish. If you’re using chickpeas or white beans, add them now to enrich the soup’s texture and protein content. Allow it to cook gently for 5 to 7 more minutes, just until everything is heated through and perfectly blended.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Your Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and prepare to delight in all those comforting, layered flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your soup to an entirely new level. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a pinch of cracked black pepper, or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add a fresh, vibrant finish. A handful of crunchy toasted bread crumbs or pumpkin seeds can also add a nice textural contrast that makes every spoonful memorable.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with light, fresh side dishes. A crisp mixed green salad or crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for dipping and balancing the creamy richness. If you want something heartier, a warm quinoa salad or a slice of garlic bread will complement the flavors and keep your meal satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for cozy home vibes or try hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for an impressive presentation at a casual dinner party. For a playful touch, swirl some dairy-free pesto or a splash of hot sauce on top before serving. When inviting guests over, set up a garnish bar with fresh herbs, seeds, and vegan cheese shavings, so everyone can personalize their bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container once cooled, and you’ll have a quick, healthy lunch or dinner ready to go on busy days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Just be sure to leave some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much after chilling, add a splash of dairy-free milk or vegetable broth to loosen it back up to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! This Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to add or substitute veggies like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers depending on what you have on hand or your personal taste.
Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, it is! This recipe uses dairy-free butter and milk alternatives, along with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor, making it completely vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
You certainly can. Start by sautéing the veggies as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, adding the peas, corn, and milk alternatives in the last 30 minutes.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
To thicken, simmer longer to reduce the liquid or add a bit more flour mixed with a small amount of water. For a thinner soup, simply add more vegetable broth or dairy-free milk until you reach your desired consistency.
What is nutritional yeast, and can I omit it?
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that adds a savory, cheesy flavor and lots of nutrients. If you don’t have it, you can omit it; the soup will still be delicious, though a bit less rich in umami taste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe enough for anyone looking to brighten up their meal rotation with something wholesome, satisfying, and easy to make. It’s packed with fresh flavors, comforting creaminess, and healthy ingredients that nourish your body and soul. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the cozy goodness that only a perfect bowl of soup can bring.
Print
Creamy Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This creamy vegetable soup is a comforting, dairy-free, and flavorful meal perfect for any season. Made with a medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a dairy-free roux, this soup offers a rich texture and wholesome nutrition. It features carrots, celery, peas, corn, and optional chickpeas or white beans, making it hearty and satisfying without any dairy products.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup chickpeas or white beans (optional)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
Liquids & Thickening
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup dairy-free butter
- 1 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk
Additional Flavor
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Create Roux: Add the dairy-free butter to the pot and stir until it melts completely. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the vegetables, stirring constantly to combine and form a roux that will thicken the soup later.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Add the black pepper, fresh rosemary, oregano, and thyme to the mixture. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Simmer Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and allow it to thicken to a creamy consistency, which should take a few minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the peas, corn, nutritional yeast, unsweetened dairy-free milk, and optional chickpeas or white beans. Cook everything together for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy vegetable soup into bowls and serve warm for a cozy, dairy-free, nutritious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chickpeas with any white beans of choice or omit them for a lighter soup.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of dairy-free milk slightly.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (reduce quantity by half).
- This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if using salted vegetable broth.
