When the weather turns chilly or you’re in need of a meal that’s comforting and nourishing, a hearty vegetable soup hits the spot. Packed with fresh, colorful vegetables, rich broths, and a blend of seasonings, this vegetable soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s the perfect dish for feeding a crowd, a family, or even having leftovers for several days.
Here’s a recipe that brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor:
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
1/2 cup small pasta (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prep the Veggies:
Start by preparing all your vegetables. Chop the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. If you’re using spinach or kale, roughly chop the greens as well.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Harder Vegetables:
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir well, letting the vegetables cook for another 5-7 minutes.
Add Remaining Vegetables and Broth:
Add the zucchini, green beans, corn, and the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine. Toss in the bay leaf, thyme, basil, and oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Optional Add-ins:
If you’re adding pasta, stir it in about 10 minutes before the soup is done cooking so it doesn’t overcook. If you’re using spinach or kale, add it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow it to wilt and incorporate.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve & Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. You can also sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
