easy Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something comforting yet incredibly nourishing, you’ll absolutely love this easy Vegetable Soup. Brimming with colorful vegetables and bracing flavors, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on even the chilliest days. Whether you’re new to homemade soup or a seasoned cook looking for a tried-and-true classic, you’ll find this recipe a breeze to whip up, delicious beyond measure, and perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely family meals.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready for a simple yet vibrant list of ingredients! Each veggie lends its unique flavor and color to the bowl, while a few pantry staples tie everything together for a hearty, memorable soup. You’ll be surprised how these basics create magic!

• Olive Oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps soften the vegetables without overpowering the flavor.
• Yellow Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and forms the savory backbone of the soup.
• Garlic: Infuses an aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible in any vegetable soup.
• Carrots: Offer up beautiful color and a gentle, earthy sweetness.
• Celery: Its crisp freshness balances the carrot’s sweetness and adds great texture.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These hold their shape and make the soup especially filling and comforting.
• Green Beans: Give crunch and a pop of green that looks gorgeous in any easy Vegetable Soup.
• Zucchini: Adds lightness and soaks up the lovely broth flavors perfectly.
• Diced Tomatoes (canned): Boosts both flavor and body, making the broth tangy and rich.
• Vegetable Broth: Acts as the delicious, savory base, tying all the veggies together in perfect harmony.
• Dried Thyme: Provides comforting herbal notes that linger on the palate.
• Dried Basil: Brightens every spoonful with classic Italian flavor.
• Bay Leaf: Steeps in the soup for a subtle, sophisticated undertone.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the vibrant vegetable flavors to life.
• Frozen Peas: Add a sweet finish and an extra pop of color right at the end.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For an eye-catching, fresh, and flavorful garnish.

How to Make easy Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and cook until it turns translucent and fragrant—about 3 minutes. Toss in the garlic next and give everything a good stir, letting that unmistakable aroma set the stage for your easy Vegetable Soup.

Step 2: Build the Vegetable Base

Add carrots and celery to the pot, sautéing for 5 or so minutes until the veggies just begin to soften. This step not only sweetens the base, but also layers flavors so that every spoonful tastes wonderfully complex.

Step 3: Add Heartier Vegetables

Stir in the potatoes and green beans, making sure they’re well mixed with the aromatics. These are the veggies that hold their texture the best, so sautéing them a bit lets them soak up flavor before swimming in the broth.

Step 4: Pour In Broth and Seasonings

Now it’s time for the big flavor boost! Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), then add vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried basil, and the bay leaf. Give it a hearty pinch of salt and some cracked black pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Add Softer Veggies

Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently until the potatoes are just fork-tender, usually 15-20 minutes. Then, add the zucchini and frozen peas for the last 5 minutes—since they cook more quickly, this keeps their color and texture spot-on.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

Remove the bay leaf and do a final taste test. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed. If you love a fresh finish, toss in a handful of chopped parsley before heading straight to the bowl!

How to Serve easy Vegetable Soup

Garnishes

Brighten up your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil. Some folks love an extra kick—try topping with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a scoop of grated Parmesan for a lavish twist.

Side Dishes

Go classic with thick slices of crusty bread, perfect for dunking, or a warm baguette straight from the oven. If you want a lighter side, serve the soup with a crisp green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette. This easy Vegetable Soup pairs beautifully with almost anything!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun touch, ladle the soup into big mugs to cozy up on the couch, or serve in rustic bowls with lots of colorful garnishes. Hosting friends? Set up a “soup bar” where everyone can add their own toppings—think lemon wedges, grated cheese, or extra herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Easy Vegetable Soup stores wonderfully! Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

Need to meal-prep or save some for later? This soup freezes like a dream. Once cooled, pack portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm gently on the stove until hot, stirring now and then. If you’re short on time, the microwave does the trick as well! Sometimes veggies soak up liquid, so add a splash of broth or water if needed.

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables in this easy Vegetable Soup?

Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up any stray veggies in your crisper drawer. Swap in corn, spinach, kale, or even bell peppers—feel free to make it your own with seasonal produce.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a plant-based broth and watch for gluten in any pre-made stocks, this easy Vegetable Soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free. It’s a crowd-pleaser for almost any diet!

Can I make easy Vegetable Soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Just toss all the veggies and seasonings into your slow cooker, cover with broth, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4. Add in the zucchini and peas during the last half hour so they stay bright and tender.

How do I make the soup more filling?

For a heartier bowl, add cooked beans (like cannellini or chickpeas), small pasta shapes, or even a handful of grains such as barley or rice. Each adds extra texture and makes a more substantial meal.

Why is my vegetable soup bland?

If the soup tastes flat, it probably needs a pinch more salt, a splash of acid (like lemon juice or a dash of vinegar), or perhaps a sprinkle of extra herbs. Simmering a bit longer also deepens the flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a pot of easy Vegetable Soup with people you care about. This recipe brings so much warmth and flexibility to your table; try it once and you might just find it becomes your go-to comfort food. Happy cooking!

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