This Vegetable Soup brings comfort and warmth to any occasion. Packed with vibrant, healthy vegetables and infused with aromatic herbs, this dish is perfect for chilly days or as a light meal year-round. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for endless customization based on your favorite veggies or what’s in season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This vegetable soup can be whipped up in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Loaded with a variety of vegetables, this soup is low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or leftovers for a unique twist each time you make it.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for an easy meal option later on.
- Flavor-Packed: With the combination of fresh herbs and spices, every bowl bursts with rich flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows you to easily combine all ingredients without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, which is essential when prepping for this vegetable soup.
Ingredients
This hot and comforting vegetable soup is coziness in a bowl, brimming with healthy, vibrant veggies in a rich broth infused with herbs!
For the Base
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
- 2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced small
- 3 parsnips, peeled and diced small
- 3 celery ribs, diced small
- 2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small
Seasonings
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
The Broth & Greens
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained and seeded, and finely diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup kale, chopped
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Small squeeze of lemon
How to Make Vegetable Soup
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering and prepping all of your ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Place a medium-large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add in the ghee or butter along with the olive oil. Once melted together:
1. Add in the leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, and diced potatoes.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
3. Cook these together for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to become slightly translucent.
Step 3: Add Herbs & Garlic
Stir in the Italian seasoning and dried parsley along with the garlic until well incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes & Broth
Add the diced tomatoes followed by the vegetable or chicken stock:
1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat so that the soup is gently simmering.
3. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender yet still have a slight bite.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Turn off the heat:
1. Stir in the peas, kale, chopped parsley, and a small squeeze of lemon.
2. Taste before serving to see if any additional salt/pepper is needed.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 244 calories
How to Serve Vegetable Soup
Serving vegetable soup is all about enhancing its comforting qualities. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends, these suggestions will elevate your meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A thick slice of fresh bread can be perfect for dipping into the rich broth of your vegetable soup. Choose a sourdough or whole grain loaf for added texture.
Add a Dollop of Pesto
- Swirl in a spoonful of basil or spinach pesto right before serving. This adds a burst of flavor and makes the soup feel gourmet.
Top with Grated Cheese
- Sprinkle some grated cheese like parmesan or mozzarella on top to create a cheesy layer that melts into the warm soup.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A light green salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider mixing arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or chives can brighten up the flavors. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for an aromatic touch.
Offer a Squeeze of Lemon
- A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating enhances the soup’s flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
How to Perfect Vegetable Soup
Creating the perfect vegetable soup requires attention to detail and some culinary tricks. Here are tips to enhance your soup-making skills.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide vibrant flavors and nutrients, making your soup more delicious.
Layer Your Flavors: Start by sautéing aromatics like leeks and garlic first. This builds depth in taste right from the beginning.
Season Gradually: Season your soup as you go. This allows you to adjust flavors better and ensures every bite is well-seasoned.
Choose Quality Broth: A rich vegetable or chicken broth serves as the backbone of your soup, so opt for high-quality stock or homemade broth when possible.
Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Aim for tender yet firm vegetables. Overcooking can lead to mushy textures and lost nutrients.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
Best Side Dishes for Vegetable Soup
Complementing vegetable soup with side dishes can create a more satisfying meal experience. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the broth, adding flavor and crunch.
Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make a hearty addition.
Cheese Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas provide a melty contrast to your warm soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional textures and flavors that pair wonderfully with soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing, grilled cheese adds warmth and gooeyness that complements the soup perfectly.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and freshness, enhancing your meal without overpowering it.
Crispy Tostadas: Crunchy tostadas topped with refried beans can be delightful alongside your bowl of vegetable goodness.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory soups while being nutritious and filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your vegetable soup as delicious as possible, avoid these common pitfalls.
- Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking the veggies too long can lead to a mushy texture. Keep an eye on them and cook until just tender.
- Neglecting seasoning – Not seasoning your soup adequately can leave it bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning during cooking.
- Using low-quality broth – A good broth is key for flavor. Choose a high-quality vegetable or chicken broth for the best results.
- Skipping fresh herbs – Fresh herbs enhance flavor, while dried ones lack punch. Add fresh parsley at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Not prepping ingredients – Failing to prep ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Chop everything before starting to maintain consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container.
Freezing Vegetable Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
Reheating Vegetable Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop – Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making vegetable soup.
How can I make my Vegetable Soup thicker?
You can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or add mashed potatoes or legumes for thickness.
Can I use frozen vegetables in Vegetable Soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well! Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they stay vibrant and crisp.
What are some good variations of Vegetable Soup?
Feel free to customize by adding different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even grains like quinoa or rice for added texture.
How long will homemade Vegetable Soup last?
Homemade vegetable soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This vegetable soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any season!
Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this delightful Vegetable Soup, a nourishing and flavorful dish that brings comfort to any meal. Packed with an array of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup is not only easy to make but also highly customizable, allowing you to incorporate seasonal produce or leftovers. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a light meal throughout the year. Plus, this soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Each bowl is a burst of flavor and nutrition, ideal for anyone looking to enjoy wholesome goodness.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
- 2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced small
- 3 parsnips, peeled and diced small
- 3 celery ribs, diced small
- 2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained and seeded, and finely diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Small squeeze of lemon
Instructions
- Begin by gathering and prepping all of your ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.
- Place a medium-large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add in the ghee or butter along with the olive oil. Once melted together, add in the leeks, carrots, parsnips, celery, and diced potatoes. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook these together for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to become slightly translucent.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning and dried parsley along with the garlic until well incorporated.
- Add the diced tomatoes followed by the vegetable or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat so that the soup is gently simmering. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender yet still have a slight bite.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the peas, kale, chopped parsley, and a small squeeze of lemon. Taste before serving to see if any additional salt/pepper is needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 244
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize your vegetable choices based on preference or what you have on hand—zucchini or bell peppers can be fantastic additions! For a thicker consistency, blend part of the soup before serving.
