Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe Easy

Introduction

This easy homemade vegetable soup recipe in 30 minutes is the perfect answer for a quick, healthy, and comforting meal. Packed with fresh, colorful vegetables and a savory broth, it’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal effort. For another simple vegetable-forward dish, try this Pasta with Spinach Sauce Recipe or this hearty Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe.

Ingredients

This easy vegetable soup recipe comes together with a simple, colorful medley of fresh and pantry staples, simmered into a comforting and nourishing bowl.

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 60 oz vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tsp salt, or to taste*
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup frozen sweet corn
• 1 cup frozen sweet peas
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Vegetables

Dice one large onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Mince two cloves of garlic. This prep work ensures everything cooks evenly and builds a flavorful base for your Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery (the “mirepoix”) and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7–8 minutes until the onions are translucent and softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3 — Add Broth and Hearty Vegetables

Pour in 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Add one can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and two diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This initial boil helps meld the flavors quickly.

Step 4 — Simmer Until Tender

Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce a potato cube with a fork.

Step 5 — Incorporate Quick-Cooking Veggies

Stir in one cup of frozen green beans and one cup of frozen corn. For fresh greens like spinach or kale, add them now. Simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes until these vegetables are heated through and tender.

Step 6 — Season and Adjust

Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, and salt and black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning—this is key for a flavorful vegetable soup. For more depth, add a splash of soy sauce or a spoonful of tomato paste.

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 7 — Serve and Store

Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This easy vegetable soup recipe stores beautifully; let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	5g
Fiber	8g
Sodium	480mg
Vitamin A	120% DV
Vitamin C	60% DV

Note: Nutritional estimates for this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe are based on typical ingredients and a one-cup serving size. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

This flexible Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe adapts beautifully to various dietary needs. Here are simple swaps to customize it.

• Protein Alternative — Swap the beans for 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken or lean ground turkey for a heartier, protein-rich version.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace starchy potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips for a similar texture with fewer net carbs.
• Dairy-Free Version — For a creamy finish without dairy, blend a portion of the soup with a can of rinsed white beans or a splash of unsweetened coconut milk.
• Gluten-Free Assurance — Use a certified gluten-free vegetable broth to ensure the entire pot of vegetable soup is safe and flavorful.
• Low-Sodium Adaptation — Opt for a no-salt-added vegetable broth and boost flavor with herbs like rosemary, extra garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Extra Hearty — Add a half-cup of pearled barley or whole-wheat pasta in the last 15 minutes of cooking for a more filling, fiber-packed meal.
• Oil-Free Start — Sauté your aromatics in a few tablespoons of the broth instead of olive oil for a delicious, lower-fat base.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this easy vegetable soup recipe with a thick slice of crusty sourdough or a warm, buttery dinner roll for a simple and satisfying meal.
• For a heartier lunch, top a bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a dollop of pesto, or a handful of crispy croutons.
• This soup is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, a light lunch, or as a comforting starter for a larger family gathering.
• Serve it in a deep, wide bowl to showcase the colorful vegetables and fragrant broth.
• Transform leftovers into a new meal by adding cooked pasta, rice, or shredded chicken to the reheated soup.
• For a complete, balanced plate, accompany your easy vegetable soup with a simple side salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using only water as the base, which can result in a bland soup. Fix: Start with a good-quality vegetable broth or make a quick stock from your vegetable scraps for a richer flavor foundation.
• Mistake: Adding all vegetables at the same time. Fix: Sauté hard vegetables like carrots and celery first, then add softer ones like zucchini later to ensure everything cooks perfectly.
• Mistake: Overcooking the vegetables until they turn mushy. Fix: Simmer just until the vegetables are tender-crisp, which preserves their texture, color, and nutrients.
• Mistake: Not seasoning in layers. Fix: Season with salt and herbs when sautéing the aromatics and again at the end to build a deep, complex flavor profile.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of sautéing onions, garlic, or other aromatics. Fix: Always sauté these first in a little oil to unlock their essential oils, which form the flavor backbone of your easy vegetable soup recipe.
• Mistake: Using canned vegetables that can become overly soft and salty. Fix: Opt for fresh or frozen vegetables, which hold their shape better and allow you to control the sodium level.
• Mistake: Neglecting to add an acid at the end. Fix: A splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar just before serving brightens all the flavors and makes the soup taste fresher.
• Mistake: Letting the soup boil vigorously after adding delicate greens like spinach. Fix: Stir in leafy greens off the heat; the residual warmth is enough to wilt them perfectly without turning them slimy.
• Mistake: Serving the soup immediately without letting it rest. Fix: Let the pot sit, covered, for 10-15 minutes after cooking; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Always use clean utensils to serve the soup to prevent contamination and maximize its shelf life.

Conclusion

This Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, healthy meal with minimal effort. It’s a versatile base you can customize with your favorite seasonal produce. If you’re looking for another simple veggie-packed dish, try our Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe Easy. We hope you love this soup! Please leave a comment with your review, and don’t forget to subscribe for more quick and delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead. Its flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?

You can easily customize this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe. Use any hearty vegetables you have on hand, like sweet potatoes, green beans, or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for firmer or softer vegetables.

How can I make this vegetable soup thicker?

For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the cooked vegetables directly in the pot with an immersion blender. Alternatively, you can mash some of the vegetables against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving.