If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing, and wonderfully flavorful dish to warm your soul, this Vegetable Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and herbs in a light yet satisfying broth that feels like a big comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for any season, this soup is not only easy to whip up but also packed with vibrant textures and wholesome goodness that will keep you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each adding its own special touch to the overall taste, texture, and beautiful color of the soup. From sweet carrots to fragrant garlic, the combination is just right to create depth and balance.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This adds a subtle richness and helps soften the aromatics for a flavorful base.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and a sturdy foundation for the soup’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that elevates every spoonful.
- 2 carrots, diced: Bring natural sweetness and a lovely bite.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Offer a mild bitterness that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- 1 zucchini, diced: Adds tenderness and a subtle, fresh taste.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Contributes bright acidity and juicy texture.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: The heart of the soup that ties together all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses the soup with a warm blend of herbs for an aromatic finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently for 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and release their marvelous fragrance. This step lays the flavorful groundwork that will permeate every spoonful of your soup.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next up, stir in the diced carrots, chopped celery, and diced zucchini. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening while still holding onto a bit of their crispness. This stage builds the delightful texture and depth in your soup.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasoning
Now, pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together so the flavors meld and the herbs start to infuse the broth with their warming, aromatic notes.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Raise the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. By this point, all the vegetables will be tender and the flavors will be beautifully blended into a comforting, satisfying broth.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
The final touch is simple yet impactful — season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle it into bowls and crown each serving with fresh parsley, bringing a vibrant freshness and lovely color contrast that makes the dish look as delightful as it tastes.
How to Serve Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese brings an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance. For some added texture, a few crunchy croutons or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can turn your soup into a restaurant-quality treat right at home.
Side Dishes
This soup shines when paired with a crusty bread like a baguette or warm, buttery dinner rolls for dipping. A light green salad or a simple grilled cheese sandwich also make lovely companions, turning your meal into a fully satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the vegetable soup in rustic bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls for an extra cozy vibe. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs or a swirl of cream to elevate presentation. Adding a sprinkle of toasted seeds or nuts can give the dish an unexpected crunch that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Vegetable Soup Recipe tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen and settle, making each subsequent serving more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to keep your soup for longer, pouring it into freezer-safe containers and freezing it is a great option. It can last up to 3 months frozen without losing its flavor or texture. Just make sure the soup is completely cooled before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating
Reheat your vegetable soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. Alternatively, heat individual portions in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe tomatoes can be diced and added, especially in summer when they’re at their peak. You might want to simmer them a little longer to break them down fully and release their juices.
Is this Vegetable Soup Recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based, using vegetable broth and no animal products, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize by adding green beans, peas, spinach, or potatoes depending on your preference and what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times as needed for the vegetables you choose.
How thick or thin can I make this soup?
You have full control here! Add more broth for a lighter, broth-forward soup or reduce the liquid slightly for a heartier, thicker texture. You can even blend a portion of the soup if you like a creamier consistency without cream.
What herbs work best in this Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Italian seasoning is a perfect blend for this soup, but fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil also work beautifully. Adding herbs toward the end of cooking or as a garnish keeps their flavor bright and fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Vegetable Soup Recipe is truly a staple that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to the table. Its simplicity, combined with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients, makes it a dish you will want to make again and again. So grab your pot, gather those fresh veggies, and dive into a bowlful of hearty goodness—you’re going to love every spoonful!
Print
Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and healthy vegetable soup packed with fresh vegetables and Italian seasoning, perfect for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and rich in flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes to begin softening the vegetables.
- Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20–25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, sauté the vegetables a bit longer until they start to brown slightly.
- You can add other vegetables like green beans or potatoes to customize the soup.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt content.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added comfort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
