This Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delightful celebration of wholesome, vibrant veggies simmered to perfection in a rich, herby broth. It captures the true essence of comfort food without any fuss, offering a bowl filled with colors, textures, and nourishing flavors that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just stepping into the kitchen, this soup promises simplicity, healthfulness, and satisfying heartiness all in one pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Vegetable Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a balanced, flavorful dish. Every item contributes either vibrant color, textured bite, or aromatic depth, coming together harmoniously to elevate the soup to something truly special.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently sauté the vegetables for enhanced flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base that deepens the overall taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Bring natural sweetness and a slight crunch when cooked just right.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Contribute a fresh, slightly peppery note that balances the sweetness of other vegetables.
- 1 zucchini, chopped: Adds tenderness and mild flavor, absorbing the herbs and broth beautifully.
- 1 potato, peeled and diced: Creates body and comforting creaminess as it gently breaks down.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut: Provide a crisp texture and vibrant green color.
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice: Imparts acidity and a touch of brightness to the soup base.
- 6 cups vegetable broth: The heart of the soup that binds all ingredients together with savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Sprinkles in earthy herbal notes reminiscent of garden freshness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds Mediterranean warmth and complexity.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances flavor subtly and rounds out the herb profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and brings out the natural taste of the vegetables.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives just a hint of mild heat and spice.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant green color near the end of cooking.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshens and brightens the soup with every spoonful.
How to Make Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these together for about 5 to 6 minutes until the onions become translucent and the carrots and celery start to soften. This step unlocks the natural sweetness of these veggies and creates a flavorful foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Main Vegetables and Broth
Next, stir in the chopped zucchini, diced potato, and green beans. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice along with the vegetable broth. Toss in the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything to combine and bring the pot to a gentle boil. This is when the magic begins as the broth absorbs the herbs and the veggies start to mingle, soaking up all those great flavors.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to a simmer and leave the soup uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. Allow the vegetables to soften completely and the flavors to fuse. This slow simmer is what gives the soup such a comforting, homemade feel as every spoonful becomes packed with tender bites and warmth.
Step 4: Finish with Peas and Fresh Parsley
In the final moments, stir in the frozen peas. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes to gently warm the peas through. Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning adjustments. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving to add vibrancy and a lovely herbal freshness that truly completes this Vegetable Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While this soup is delicious on its own, garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan (if not vegan), or a dollop of plant-based yogurt can enhance its creaminess and add a touch of indulgence. A few extra fresh parsley leaves or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring in a fresh or spicy note, making each bowl feel a little more special.
Side Dishes
Pair your Vegetable Soup Recipe with crusty whole-grain bread or warm garlic naan for dipping, which provides a lovely contrast in texture. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the soup’s earthiness, turning this meal into a filling and wholesome feast that’s perfect any day of the week.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in charming rustic bowls or mason jars to emphasize its cozy, homemade vibe. For a fun twist, top each bowl with small shards of toasted nuts or seeds for crunch. You can even swirl in a spoonful of pesto or drizzle some infused chili oil on top to surprise your taste buds with something unexpected yet delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Vegetable Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen after resting, making the next-day soup even more delicious. Just be sure to remove any added garnishes before storing for optimal freshness.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Cool it completely before transferring into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing much of its vibrant taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much, to bring back its perfect soup-like consistency.
FAQs
Can I add other vegetables to this Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with corn, spinach, cabbage, or any other favorites you have on hand. These add unique flavors and textures, making the soup your own.
Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Vegetable Soup Recipe is naturally vegan as it relies purely on plant-based ingredients and vegetable broth. Just watch any garnishes you add if you want to keep it completely vegan.
How thick or thin is this soup?
The soup is a brothy, hearty style—not too thick—highlighting tender chunks of veggies swimming in flavorful broth. Adjust broth quantity to your preference for thinner or thicker consistency.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs can definitely be used but add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
What is the best way to store frozen soup for quality?
Use airtight containers or special freezer bags and try to freeze soup in single or family-sized portions. Labeling with dates ensures you use it while it’s at peak quality.
Final Thoughts
This Vegetable Soup Recipe is a true kitchen gem that brings comfort, nutrition, and joy in every spoonful. Its ease, freshness, and adaptability make it a reliable go-to meal for any occasion. I wholeheartedly encourage you to make it, share it, and savor the lovely moments this soup can create around your table.
Print
Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This hearty and healthy vegetable soup is a comforting blend of fresh and frozen vegetables simmered in flavorful vegetable broth and aromatic herbs, perfect for a nourishing vegan meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the chopped zucchini, diced potato, trimmed green beans, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, and vegetable broth. Add dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Finish with Peas and Herbs: Add the frozen peas to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat them through. Remove the bay leaf from the soup, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- You can customize this soup by adding other vegetables like corn, spinach, or cabbage for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a protein boost, stir in cooked lentils or beans just before serving.
