Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup: A Flavorful & Healthy Comfort Dish

Nothing satisfies like a steaming bowl of homemade vegetable soup. Packed with fresh produce, savory herbs, and rich broth, this versatile dish is both comforting and nourishing.

Our easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Quick Recipe Overview

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Serves: 6-8

Why Vegetable Soup Belongs in Your Regular Rotation

This nutrient-dense soup offers:
✔ Customizable ingredients – use whatever vegetables are in season
✔ Meal prep friendly – flavors improve overnight
✔ Dietary flexibility – naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie
✔ Cost-effective – transforms leftover veggies into a delicious meal

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetable Variations (choose 3-4):

  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup peas
  • 2 cups spinach or kale
  • 1 potato, cubed

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Build the Broth: Stir in tomatoes with juices, broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
  3. Add Vegetables: Incorporate your chosen vegetables (except leafy greens). Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes.
  4. Finish with Greens: If using spinach or kale, stir in during last 5 minutes of cooking.
  5. Season: Remove bay leaves. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup

  • Flavor Boosters: Add Parmesan rind, splash of wine, or dash of soy sauce
  • Texture Variations: Blend half for creamy texture or add cooked pasta/rice
  • Protein Options: Stir in beans, lentils, or shredded chicken
  • Freezing: Portion and freeze for up to 3 months

Serving Suggestions

  • With Bread: Crusty baguette or grilled cheese sandwich
  • Toppings: Fresh herbs, grated cheese, or croutons
  • Make it a Meal: Serve over cooked grains or with a side salad

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