There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, isn’t there? I remember when I was a little girl, coming in from playing in the snow, and my mom would have a big pot of vegetable soup simmering on the stove. The smell alone was enough to warm me from the inside out! Now, I want to share with you my recipe for a simple, nourishing vegetable soup that’s perfect for busy families like ours. This recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, and it’s packed with good-for-you vegetables and tons of flavor. You’ll want to keep this iron-rich soup recipe close at hand, especially during the cooler months.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Soup
- Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables.
- Nutrient-packed: Loaded with vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
- Meal prep friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
- Budget-friendly: A delicious and affordable meal option.
What Vegetables Should I Add to Vegetable Soup?
One of the best things about vegetable soup is how versatile it is! While my recipe calls for specific vegetables, you can easily adapt it to use what you have on hand or what your family enjoys most. Root vegetables like parsnips and turnips add a lovely sweetness, while leafy greens like spinach or kale provide extra nutrients and color. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even bell peppers would also be fantastic additions. Keep in mind that different vegetables will impact the flavor and texture of your soup, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination!
Ingredients for the Best Vegetable Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make my delicious vegetable soup:
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: This is for sautéing the vegetables at the beginning, adding depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion ((1 medium)): Onions are a foundational flavor for almost any good soup.
- 2 cups peeled and chopped carrots ((about 5)): Carrots add sweetness and a vibrant color to the soup.
- 1 1/4 cups chopped celery ((about 3)): Celery contributes a savory note that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- 4 cloves garlic (, minced): Garlic adds a pungent flavor that enhances the other vegetables.
- 4 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth: I prefer low-sodium broth so I can control the salt level.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (undrained): Tomatoes add acidity and richness.
- 3 cups peeled and 1/2-inch thick diced potatoes ((from about 3 medium)): Potatoes add heartiness and help thicken the soup.
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley: Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
- 2 bay leaves: Bay leaves infuse the soup with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme, (or 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves): Thyme adds a warm, earthy note.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped frozen or fresh green beans: Green beans add a nice crunch and visual appeal.
- 1 1/4 cups frozen or fresh corn: Corn adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1 cup frozen or fresh peas: Peas add a touch of sweetness and vibrant green color.
How to Make Vegetable Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a comforting pot of vegetable soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. This will ensure the vegetables don’t stick and brown nicely.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery and saute 4 minutes, then add garlic and saute 30 seconds longer. Sautéing these vegetables first helps to build a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add in broth, tomatoes, potatoes, parsley, bay leaves, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go!
- Bring to a boil, then add green beans.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until potatoes are almost fully tender, about 20 – 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to cook through.
- Add corn and peas and cook 5 minutes longer. I add these towards the end so they don’t get mushy. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Spice Blends and Flavor Profiles for Your Vegetable Soup
Want to switch things up? Try these spice combinations to create different flavor profiles:
- Italian-inspired: Add oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Mexican-inspired: Add cumin, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Asian-inspired: Add ginger, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Vegetable Soup
Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cook until tender, but still slightly firm, to retain some texture.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Using too much water: Start with less broth and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Using old or stale spices: Fresh spices provide the best flavor, so check your spice rack!
Make it a Meal: Serving Suggestions for Vegetable Soup
Vegetable soup is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- A side salad with a delicious crusty bread
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs
Variations and Substitutions for Vegetable Soup
Here’s a table of substitutions for various dietary needs and preferences:
| Ingredient | Substitution Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Broth | Vegetable Broth, Water with bouillon | Adjust seasoning accordingly. |
| Potatoes | Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips, Turnips | May slightly alter the flavor profile. |
| Green Beans | Broccoli, Zucchini, Asparagus | Adjust cooking time based on the vegetable. |
| Diced Tomatoes | Fresh Tomatoes (peeled and chopped), Tomato Sauce | Use about 2 cups of fresh tomatoes or 1 cup of tomato sauce. |
| Thyme | Italian Seasoning, Herbs de Provence | A 1:1 substitution is fine |
Storing and Reheating Your Vegetable Soup
To store leftover vegetable soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Amazing 45-Minute Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery and saute 4 minutes then add garlic and saute 30 seconds longer.
- Add in broth, tomatoes, potatoes, parsley, bay leaves, thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then add green beans.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer until potatoes are almost fully tender, about 20 – 30 minutes.
- Add corn and peas and cook 5 minutes longer. Serve warm.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegetable Soup
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! Kidney beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas would be great additions.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in the Instant Pot. Then, add the remaining ingredients (except for the corn and peas) and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick-release the pressure, add the corn and peas, and cook for 2 minutes more.
How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger batch?
Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally.
What if I don’t have [specific vegetable]? What’s a good substitute?
Don’t worry! Just use whatever vegetables you have on hand or substitute with a similar vegetable.
How long does vegetable soup last?
It lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator or 2-3 months in the freezer.
Why is my vegetable soup bland?
Make sure you’re seasoning it properly! Taste and adjust as you go. You may also need to add a little acidity, like a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar.
Is this vegetable soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth.
Can I make a Vegetarian/Vegan version?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Nutrition Information (approximate): Calories: 250
Conclusion
This vegetable soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a simple, nourishing meal that you can customize to your family’s liking, and it’s ready in under an hour! I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the process of cooking for yourself and your loved ones. I can’t wait to see what variations you create! Share your vegetable soup masterpieces in the comments below!
