Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients, this Hearty Vegetable Soup is the perfect one-pot meal. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a way to use up leftover veggies, this versatile recipe is sure to hit the spot. It’s easy to make, customizable, and brimming with rich flavors.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
For the Broth:
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for added heartiness
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Potatoes
- Stir in the potatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, allowing the potatoes to begin softening.
3. Add Remaining Vegetables
- Stir in the zucchini, green beans, peas, and diced tomatoes.
- Add thyme, basil, smoked paprika, and chili flakes if using.
- Simmer for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
4. Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- If adding pasta, rice, or quinoa, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup
Use Seasonal Vegetables:
The fresher the veggies, the better the flavor. Swap ingredients based on what’s in season or available.Make It Creamy:
Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture without adding dairy.Store for Later:
This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months and reheat on the stove or microwave.Protein Boost:
Add chickpeas, lentils, or shredded chicken to make the soup more filling.
Why You’ll Love It
This Hearty Vegetable Soup is:
- Nourishing: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from a variety of vegetables.
- Versatile: Easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or what you have in the fridge.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and minimal cleanup make it perfect for busy days.
- Deliciously Comforting: A warm bowl of this soup feels like a hug on a cold day.