This vegetable soup is a wholesome, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any season. Packed with fresh vegetables and vibrant herbs, it’s a comforting and nourishing meal you can prepare in under an hour. This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and 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 or sweet corn (optional)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
For the Broth:
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for extra heartiness
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach for added greens
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
- Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Stir in the potatoes, zucchini, and green beans.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, basil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Final Ingredients
- Stir in the frozen peas or sweet corn, if using. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- If adding kale or spinach, stir it in during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking to wilt the greens.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, seasonal vegetables will give the soup the best flavor.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add veggies based on what you have on hand, like bell peppers, mushrooms, or squash.
- Blending Option: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
- Make It Ahead: Vegetable soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Why You’ll Love It
This Delicious Vegetable Soup is:
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Versatile: Easily adapted to suit vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets.
- Comforting: A warm and cozy meal for any day of the week.
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a go-to recipe.