Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup

Name: Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano)

Highlighted under: Fresh Start Meal Collection

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup, packed with fresh, vibrant vegetables and comforting flavors. Perfect for any season, this recipe is not only simple to make but also nutritious and satisfying. Customize it with your favorite veggies and enjoy a wholesome meal that's both delicious and easy to prepare.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-29T05:02:54.978Z

This soup is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables that not only warms you up but also boosts your health. Ideal for chilly nights or whenever you crave a light meal.

Benefits of Homemade Vegetable Soup

Making your own vegetable soup at home is an excellent way to control the ingredients and flavors. This means you can tailor the recipe to suit your dietary needs, whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or simply trying to cut down on sodium. By using fresh vegetables, you pack your soup with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Homemade soups are also free from preservatives and additives, ensuring you're serving your loved ones a wholesome meal.

Additionally, the act of making soup can be therapeutic. The process of chopping fresh vegetables and slowly simmering them in broth fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. It’s a simple, enjoyable cooking method that allows you to unwind after a long day. Plus, the satisfaction of creating a nourishing dish from scratch is hard to beat!

Customization and Variations

One of the best features of vegetable soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Want to use spinach or kale? Go right ahead! Feel free to experiment with seasonal produce to keep your soup fresh and exciting. You can add potatoes for heartiness or throw in some corn for a touch of sweetness. The options are endless, making this a perfect recipe for using up leftovers in your fridge.

If you’re looking to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding ingredients like a splash of soy sauce, some citrus juice, or even a spoonful of pesto right before serving. These simple additions can elevate your soup from good to spectacular, allowing you to make each batch uniquely yours!

Serving Suggestions

Serving your vegetable soup doesn’t have to be a one-note affair. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a fresh baguette for dipping. A side salad brings additional texture and nutrition, making your meal both hearty and satisfying. Looking for something a bit more indulgent? Try topping the soup with grated cheese or croutons for added crunch and flavor. These options turn your soup into a complete meal that will please any crowd.

Don’t forget to store any leftovers! This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days and also freezes beautifully. When stored properly, it can be a convenient go-to meal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Simply reheat and add a dash of fresh herbs or seasoning before serving for a meal that tastes freshly made.

Ingredients

Vegetables

2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup green beans, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano)

Feel free to customize with any vegetables you have on hand!

Instructions

Heat Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Add Vegetables

Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour in Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and the canned tomatoes. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Add green beans and herbs, stirring in well.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if desired!

Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup

To achieve the best flavor in your soup, always choose fresh, in-season vegetables. Not only do they taste better, but they are also more nutritious. When shopping, look for vibrantly colored vegetables as these tend to be the freshest. Prepare them with care, cutting them uniformly to ensure even cooking during the simmering process.

Another essential tip is to let your soup simmer gently. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If possible, try making your soup a day ahead; the flavors improve significantly after resting overnight, giving you a more robust and rounded dish!

Healthy Ingredients to Include

In addition to the base vegetables in this recipe, consider adding legumes like lentils or chickpeas for added protein and fiber. These ingredients not only enhance the nutritional value of your soup but also make it more satisfying, keeping you full for longer.

Spices and herbs can also play a crucial role in the health benefits of your soup. Ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and garlic can provide anti-inflammatory properties, while fresh herbs like parsley and basil add antioxidants that are beneficial for your overall health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work just as well and save you prep time!

→ How long will the soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.