Easy Vegetable Soup
This Easy Vegetable Soup is a hearty, healthy dish that can brighten up any meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and rich flavors, it’s perfect for dinner or as a comforting lunch option. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a simple recipe to warm your soul, this soup fits the bill. Best of all, it’s customizable—add in your favorite veggies or herbs to make it truly your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutrient-Rich: Filled with wholesome vegetables, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later use; enjoy homemade soup anytime!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this easy vegetable soup will please everyone.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this easy vegetable soup, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This is essential for sautéing the vegetables and simmering the soup without spilling.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easier and safer, allowing for more precise cuts.
- Ladle: A ladle helps serve the soup quickly and cleanly, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion.
Ingredients
This easy vegetable soup recipe is packed with delicious flavor and uses the simplest vegetables to their full potential! Watch the video below to see how I make it in my kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 4 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
– 3 celery ribs (sliced)
– 4 garlic cloves (minced)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 3 Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
– 1 ½ cups chopped fresh green beans
– 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
– 2 bay leaves
– 6 to 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (depending on how brothy you’d like it)
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Easy Vegetable Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Then add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; sauté another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add More Veggies
Add the potatoes, green beans, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and broth into the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Add the Frozen Veggies
Stir in the frozen corn and peas. Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.
Step 4: Serve
Turn off the heat and mix in fresh lemon juice and parsley. Use a ladle to serve the vegetable soup into bowls.
Enjoy your bowl of tasty Easy Vegetable Soup!
How to Serve Easy Vegetable Soup
Serving Easy Vegetable Soup is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit various tastes and occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with the soup. Dip it into the broth for a satisfying bite.
- Garlic Bread: For added flavor, serve your soup with buttery garlic bread, which complements the vegetables beautifully.
Topped with Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of your soup for a rich, savory touch.
- Cheddar Shreds: Add shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy texture that melts into the hot soup.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds crispness and balances the warmth of the soup.
- Greek Salad: The tanginess of feta and olives in a Greek salad makes for a refreshing contrast.
Finished with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil: Garnishing your soup with fresh basil enhances its flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Chives or Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch when sprinkled on top.
How to Perfect Easy Vegetable Soup
To make your Easy Vegetable Soup even more delicious, follow these helpful tips. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients!
- Use Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporating seasonal produce can enhance freshness and flavor in your soup.
- Adjust Broth Quantity: Customize how brothy you want your soup by adjusting the amount of vegetable broth according to your preference.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add extra spices like cumin or paprika for an additional kick of flavor.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
- Add Protein: Include beans or lentils for added protein, making this soup heartier and more satisfying.
- Incorporate Lemon Zest: Adding a bit of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors significantly.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegetable Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegetable Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing offers melty cheese between crispy bread that complements the soup’s flavors perfectly.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides a healthy contrast and adds nutrition to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meat make for a hearty side that pairs well with soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that balances out the savory vegetable flavors.
- Roasted Veggies: Roasting some seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing your dining experience.
- Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served alongside hummus offer a fun dipper option that complements the soup nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Vegetable Soup can be simple and enjoyable, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Ignoring the vegetables’ sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even tenderness.
- Overcooking the soup: Cooking it too long can make vegetables mushy. Keep an eye on cooking times, especially after adding frozen veggies.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Every vegetable has a different flavor profile. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to ensure maximum flavor.
- Using low-quality broth: The base of your soup is crucial. Opt for low-sodium or homemade broth for a richer taste, avoiding blandness.
- Not letting it sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a while after cooking helps flavors meld together. If time permits, let it rest before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Easy Vegetable Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating Easy Vegetable Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Easy Vegetable Soup.
Can I customize my Easy Vegetable Soup?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Feel free to incorporate beans or lentils for added protein.
How long does Easy Vegetable Soup last in the fridge?
Your homemade soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your vegetable soup. Just remember that you’ll need more fresh herbs than dried ones since they are less concentrated.
What should I serve with Easy Vegetable Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep during busy weeks. Customize it with your favorite veggies or grains, and enjoy a warm bowl full of goodness anytime. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!
Easy Vegetable Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x
Description
Enjoy this Easy Vegetable Soup that’s healthy and flavorful! Perfect for family dinners or meal prep—try this delightful recipe today!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 4 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 3 celery ribs (sliced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 ½ cups chopped fresh green beans
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 to 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (depending on how brothy you'd like it)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in diced potatoes, chopped green beans, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add frozen corn and peas; cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat; stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
