If you’re on the hunt for a meal that not only warms the heart but also delights the tastebuds, look no further than this Easy Vegetable Soup. It’s a vibrant and colorful concoction that seems to embody comfort in a bowl. Packed with garden-fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, green beans, and peas, this soup is a fantastic choice for quick dinners or a healthy lunch prep. The best part? It’s effortlessly simple to prepare and is made in just one pot, which means cleanup is a breeze! The flavor is enhanced by a savory herb broth that elevates the humble vegetables to new heights.

Whether you’re aiming to reset your eating habits during the week, or simply want to enjoy a wholesome bowl of soup without the fuss, this Easy Vegetable Soup is here to rescue your meal planning. Not only does it cater to a variety of dietary preferences (being vegan and gluten-free), but it also freezes beautifully for those moments when you want a home-cooked meal without the effort. Check off every box on your comfort food list and keep your pantry stocked with the ingredients for this lovely soup, so it’s ready whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Vegetable Soup

Quick & Easy: This soup comes together in 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Colorful & Nourishing: A vibrant medley of vegetables provides essential nutrients and vitamins.
One-Pot Recipe: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this convenient one-pot meal.
Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later on.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin cooking this Easy Vegetable Soup, preparing your workspace is key to achieving a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out to make the process efficient. A large soup pot is essential for this recipe, but a Dutch oven works great too. You’ll need a good-quality knife for chopping your vegetables, a cutting board, and a stirring spoon, preferably wooden or silicone to protect your pot’s surface.

Make sure your vegetables are fresh for the best flavor and nutrition—this soup is all about their deliciousness. Having everything prepped and ready helps maintain workflow, so chop your onions, dice the carrots, and clean the green beans ahead of time. With these steps taken care of, you’ll find cooking is not only easy but also an enjoyable process.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup peas
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, introduce the diced onion, sautéing it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant. This step lays down the flavor foundation for your soup. Next, add minced garlic along with the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook these vegetables for an additional 5 minutes; you want them slightly tender but still vibrant.

Step 2: Add the Hearty Ingredients

Now that your aromatics are ready, it’s time to introduce heartier elements. Toss in the cubed potatoes and cut green beans to the pot. Allow them to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps to deepen the flavors and ensures that all the veggies cook evenly together.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice), followed by the low-sodium vegetable broth. To this, add the dried thyme, dried basil, bay leaf, and season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. This bubbling action will help to meld all the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

After reaching a boil, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and the flavors to intertwine, creating that comforting essence synonymous with vegetable soup.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

With the cooking time nearly up, add the corn and peas to the mix, and let the soup simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes until heated through. Once everything is cooked to your satisfaction, remove the bay leaf from the pot. This is crucial, as the bay leaf can be quite sharp and should not be consumed directly. Take a moment to adjust the seasoning and garnish your creation with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

Variations

Protein: Consider adding canned beans—like chickpeas or kidney beans—for a protein boost.
Vegetables: Use other seasonal veggies, such as zucchini, spinach, or kale, for a nutrition boost and variety.
Spices: Experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or a dash of red pepper flakes for added flavor and heat.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your potatoes are cut evenly for consistent cooking times.
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze leftovers in portions for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices for a complete meal.
Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.

Tips

For additional flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables in vegetable broth instead of oil.
Taste and adjust the seasonings at the end of cooking for the best flavor profile.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Is there a way to enhance the flavor further?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like rosemary or cilantro added at the end of cooking will elevate the flavor immensely.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes, using frozen vegetables can be a time-saver! Just add them in when you would normally add the fresh veggies.

I want it to be thicker. What can I do?

You can blend a portion of the soup or add in a potato or two, which will naturally thicken the broth as they cook.

Conclusion

This Easy Vegetable Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a healthy embrace on a chilly day! Perfect for nourishing not only your body but your soul, it’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetable combinations or seasonings to make it your own! Join the trend of healthy eating with this satisfying dish and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!