If you’re looking for a comforting, vibrant, and wholesome dish to warm your soul, this Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Filled with an array of fresh and colorful vegetables simmered to perfection in fragrant herbs and a rich vegetable broth, every spoonful bursts with flavor and nourishing goodness. This soup is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a hearty, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect year-round and sure to become a beloved staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making this Vegetable Soup Recipe truly shine. Each component brings its own special touch, whether it’s the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of potatoes, or the freshness of herbs — all working in harmony to build layers of flavor and texture in the pot.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing veggies, adding richness and depth right from the start.
- Onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic foundation to build layers of flavor.
- Garlic: A punch of fragrant warmth that wakes up your taste buds.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and a lovely vibrant color.
- Celery: Offers a subtle, refreshing crunch and herbal undertones.
- Potatoes: Creamy texture and comforting starch that fill you up.
- Zucchini: Light and tender, it balances the heartier vegetables.
- Yellow squash: Adds gentle sweetness and visual appeal.
- Green beans: Provide a slight snap and fresh green flavor.
- Corn kernels: Pop of sweetness that’s either fresh or frozen depending on the season.
- Peas: These add little bursts of sweet freshness.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and juiciness, brightening the soup beautifully.
- Vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that pulls everything together.
- Dried thyme: Earthy and slightly minty herb that complements the medley perfectly.
- Dried basil: Adds a warm, aromatic layer to the soup.
- Dried oregano: Brings a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all tastes.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that livens up each bowl.
How to Make Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, creating a luscious base to coax out the flavors of your soup. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent — about five minutes — letting its sweetness develop. Once softened, stir in the minced garlic and let it release its irresistible aroma for another minute, ensuring the foundation is flavorful and inviting.
Step 2: Add the Hearty Vegetables
Now, toss in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. These veggies form the heartiness of the soup and bring a pleasing variety of textures. Cook them for around five minutes, stirring occasionally, so they soften slightly and mingle with those beautiful aromatics from the pot.
Step 3: Incorporate the Colorful Medley
It’s time to add the zucchini, yellow squash, green beans, corn, and peas. Each vegetable adds its unique texture and vibrant color, which will make your soup both nourishing and visually delightful. Stir everything together to mix the flavors and prepare for the next step.
Step 4: Build the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices along with the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, which elevate the soup with herbaceous notes and balance. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow everything to cook for 25 to 30 minutes until every vegetable is tender and the soup is brimming with flavor.
Step 5: Taste and Final Touch
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper can really make those flavors pop. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each bowl for a fresh, fragrant finish that will brighten every spoonful.
How to Serve Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish transforms this vegetable soup into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Finely chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely herbaceous punch and a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the warm soup. For a creamy twist, a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt works great too, lending richness and a subtle tang.
Side Dishes
This hearty vegetable soup is versatile enough to pair with several sides. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness and adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Vegetable Soup Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an inviting rustic touch that’s sure to impress guests or delight the family. Alternatively, topping the soup with some grated Parmesan or toasted nuts adds an exciting texture and an extra layer of flavor that makes each spoonful a little adventure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Vegetable soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent any flavors from mingling with other foods in your fridge.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Vegetable Soup Recipe long after you make it, freezing is an excellent option. Let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months, allowing you to thaw and enjoy anytime you need a comforting bowl of warmth.
Reheating
When ready to reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Be careful not to boil vigorously, as it can soften the vegetables too much. Adjust seasonings after reheating to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can bring a brighter, more delicate flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried to maintain the right intensity.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Vegetable Soup Recipe freezes very well. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and store it in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Can I add protein to this vegetable soup?
Definitely! Adding beans such as cannellini or chickpeas, or even cooked lentils, will boost the protein content and make the soup even more filling and nutritious.
How do I make this soup more creamy without adding dairy?
You can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for creaminess or add a splash of coconut milk to keep it dairy-free while adding richness.
What can I substitute if I don’t have all the vegetables?
This soup is very flexible. Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips, and leafy greens like spinach or kale, work well.
Final Thoughts
This Vegetable Soup Recipe is one of those comforting creations that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable to your pantry and preferences. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try and savor the simple joy of a nourishing homemade soup that brings color, flavor, and love to your table.
Print
Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and wholesome vegetable soup packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. This comforting soup is perfect for a nutritious meal any day, delivering vibrant flavors and a satisfying warmth in every bowl.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow squash, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Liquids & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Sauté Onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add Root Vegetables: Add sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the pot. Cook for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to slightly soften the vegetables and build flavor.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in diced zucchini, yellow squash, green beans, corn, and peas, combining all the vegetables evenly.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Add dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, you can partially mash some of the potatoes while simmering.
- Use fresh or frozen vegetables according to availability; frozen vegetables can be added directly without thawing.
- This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for an extra flavor kick.
- For added protein, stir in cooked beans or lentils during the simmering stage.
