Here’s a cozy, hearty Vegetable Soup recipe — full of fresh veggies, herbs, and nourishing flavor. 🥕🍅 Perfect for a light meal or as a side with bread or salad. It’s simple, healthy, and endlessly customizable!
🥣 Classic Homemade Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
- 1 cup green beans, cut into pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups (1.5 L) vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup peas (optional)
- 2 cups chopped spinach or kale (added at the end)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes, until softened.
Add garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant. - Add remaining vegetables and broth:
Stir in potatoes, green beans, tomatoes (with juice), broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. - Simmer:
Cover and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, until vegetables are tender. - Add quick-cooking veggies:
Stir in corn, peas, and spinach (or kale).
Simmer another 5 minutes. Remove bay leaf. - Adjust seasoning:
Taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired. - Serve:
Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
🌿 Tips & Variations
- Heartier version: Add ½ cup uncooked pasta, barley, or rice during simmering.
- Protein boost: Stir in cooked lentils, beans, or shredded chicken.
- Flavor twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of chili flakes before serving.
- Slow cooker option: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Would you like me to give you a creamy vegetable soup version (with a velvety texture) or a Mediterranean-style version (with chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs)?
