Vegetable Soup Recipe

When you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting dish that’s both easy to make and packed with nutrients, this Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe is the perfect choice. Loaded with fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing, making it an ideal meal for any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable soup is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of fresh vegetables used, and it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily customize it to suit your taste or whatever produce you have on hand. Whether you’re in need of a light lunch, a warming dinner, or a meal-prep option for the week, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Hearty Vegetable Soup so special:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A healthy fat that forms the base for sautéing the vegetables, adding richness and depth to the soup.
• Medium Onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and a subtle depth of flavor as it softens during cooking.
• Carrots (4, peeled and sliced): Provide natural sweetness and a vibrant color, along with essential vitamins like A and K.
• Celery (3 ribs, sliced): Adds a mild, earthy flavor and crunch, balancing out the sweetness of the carrots.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds a classic Mediterranean flavor to the soup.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes (3, peeled and diced): These potatoes have a buttery texture and hold their shape well, making them perfect for soups.
• Fresh Green Beans (1 ½ cups, chopped): Add a crisp texture and bright color to the soup, along with vitamins like C and K.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 ounces each): Provide acidity and a rich tomato flavor that forms the base of the broth.
• Bay Leaves (2): Add a subtle herbal note and help deepen the flavors as the soup simmers.
• Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth (6 to 8 cups): Forms the liquid base of the soup. The amount can be adjusted depending on how brothy you like your soup.
• Frozen Corn (1 cup): Adds a pop of sweetness and a bit of texture to the soup.
• Frozen Peas (1 cup): Provide a slight sweetness and help round out the flavors of the soup.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (2 to 3 tablespoons): Brightens the soup with a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the vegetables.
• Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): A fresh, vibrant herb that adds color and a mild, peppery flavor to the finished dish.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This step helps to build the base flavors of the soup.

2. Add the Garlic and Seasoning:
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the pot. Sauté for another 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant. This ensures the garlic doesn’t burn, which could impart a bitter taste.

3. Incorporate the Potatoes, Green Beans, and Tomatoes:
Next, add the diced Yukon gold potatoes, chopped green beans, canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), and bay leaves. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Add the Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable broth, starting with 6 cups and adding more later if needed. Stir the soup, then bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork-tender. The gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

5. Add the Frozen Vegetables:
After the soup has simmered, stir in the frozen corn and peas. Continue cooking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, just until the frozen vegetables are heated through.

6. Finish with Lemon Juice and Fresh Parsley:
Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the overall flavor of the soup, while the parsley provides a burst of color and freshness.

7. Serve:
Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup

• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: To maintain a pleasant texture, be sure not to overcook the vegetables. The potatoes should be tender but still hold their shape, and the green beans should retain a slight crunch.
• Season as You Go: Taste the soup at different stages of cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. This ensures that the flavors are balanced and well-developed.
• Use Fresh, Seasonal Vegetables: While the recipe calls for specific vegetables, feel free to use what’s in season or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale can be great additions or substitutes.

Serving Suggestions

This Hearty Vegetable Soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of pesto for added flavor.
• Side Dishes: Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a more filling meal.
• Presentation Tips: Serve the soup in rustic bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or a slice of lemon on the side for a vibrant, inviting presentation.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for evenly cooking the soup.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the vegetables and soup as it cooks.
• Ladle: To serve the soup into bowls.
• Vegetable Peeler and Knife: For prepping the potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Hearty Vegetable Soup is perfect for meal prep and stores well:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the soup even tastier the next day.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to cater to different dietary needs:

• Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can enhance it with vegan-friendly toppings like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the broth, are certified gluten-free. You can also add gluten-free pasta or quinoa for extra bulk.
• Protein Boost: Add a can of drained chickpeas, white beans, or lentils for added protein and heartiness. This makes the soup more filling and nutritious.

FAQ

Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute Yukon gold potatoes with red potatoes or russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that russet potatoes may break down more and create a thicker consistency.

How long will the soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last up to 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I add pasta to this soup?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo work well. Add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delicious, nutrient-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any season. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or as a meal prep option for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy. Give it a try today, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more healthy and comforting dishes!

Print