Vegetable soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, enveloping you in comforting flavors and nourishing goodness. Picture a bubbling pot of vibrant vegetables mingling together, their natural sweetness released into the rich broth, creating an aroma that dances through your kitchen.
This recipe isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about those cozy moments when you gather around the table with family and friends, sharing stories over steaming bowls of vegetable soup. Ideal for lazy Sundays or that midweek pick-me-up, this dish promises an amazing flavor experience that will keep you coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This vegetable soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its rich flavors and colorful presentation will impress everyone at the table
- Packed with healthy ingredients, it’s a guilt-free delight suitable for any diet
- Serve it as a starter or main course—it’s versatile enough for every occasion
Sharing this recipe with my family led to smiles all around and requests for more. It’s always lovely to see everyone enjoying something so wholesome together.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Carrots: Choose fresh, firm carrots for their natural sweetness and crunch in your soup.
Celery: Fresh celery adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor; look for crisp stalks.
Onions: Use yellow onions for their balanced sweetness; they’re the aromatic backbone of the soup.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile; opt for plump cloves for maximum zest.
Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth allows you to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add acidity and richness; fire-roasted varieties work magic here.
Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans provide vibrant color and texture; snap off the ends before adding.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes create a hearty base; peel them if you prefer a smoother texture.
Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaf): Fresh thyme adds earthiness while bay leaves infuse subtle depth during cooking.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness; choose extra-virgin for its robust flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Add Garlic & Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until aromatic. Add canned diced tomatoes to the pot along with their juices. Let it bubble gently as the flavors meld.
Pour in Broth & Seasonings : Pour in vegetable broth, then add thyme and bay leaves. Bring everything to a simmer while stirring occasionally, allowing those lovely aromas to fill your space.
Add Vegetables & Potatoes : Toss in chopped potatoes and green beans next. Stir well to combine everything before covering the pot with a lid. Simmer until vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Taste & Adjust Seasoning : After simmering, taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Serve Warm & Enjoy! : Ladle generous portions into bowls. You can garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy! Pair it with crusty bread for an extra touch of comfort.
And there you have it! A delightful vegetable soup that’s not only simple but also filled with love and warmth—a perfect addition to any meal or occasion. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful vegetable soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas elevate your cooking, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a veggie boost
- Plus, it’s super easy to customize!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic first for depth of flavor, then add vegetables and broth. Simmer until tender for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick. This soup loves creativity!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover vegetable soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, roast vegetables before adding them to the soup
- This enhances sweetness and depth
- Don’t forget to taste as you go; seasoning can make all the difference
- If it seems too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out
The first time I made this vegetable soup, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Their enthusiasm inspired me to experiment with different ingredients, creating endless variations that always impress.
FAQ
What vegetables work best in vegetable soup?
Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes are great additions, but feel free to mix your favorites.
Can I freeze vegetable soup?
Yes! Freeze in portions for easy meals later; just thaw and reheat when ready.
How do I thicken my vegetable soup?
Blend a portion of the soup or add some cooked rice or lentils for extra thickness.
Vegetable Soup
Vegetable soup is a nourishing bowl of comfort, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family gathering. This vibrant medley of fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth not only warms the soul but also delights with its rich textures and aromas. Easy to prepare, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as a starter or main course, making it ideal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes with their juices and simmer.
- Pour in vegetable broth, then add thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
- Add potatoes and green beans; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
