Easy Vegetable Soup

This Easy Vegetable Soup recipe is the perfect dish for any occasion. Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only simple to make but also versatile enough to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a light lunch option, this comforting soup checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with fresh vegetables, this soup is low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later enjoyment.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of herbs and spices elevates the natural flavors of the veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your soup, it’s essential to gather some cooking tools that will make the process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures even cooking and enhances your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 4 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 3 celery ribs (sliced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 ½ cups chopped fresh green beans
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 6 to 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (depending on how brothy you’d like it)
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Easy Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add More Veggies

Add in the potatoes, green beans, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and broth. Stir everything together well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Add the Frozen Veggies

Stir in the frozen corn and peas. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Turn off the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Ladle your delicious vegetable soup into bowls, ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Easy Vegetable Soup

Serving Easy Vegetable Soup can elevate your meal experience. This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, making it a versatile choice for lunch or dinner.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked sourdough or French bread can be perfect for dipping into the soup.

Top with Grated Cheese

• A sprinkle of Parmesan or cheddar adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped basil, cilantro, or chives can enhance the fresh flavors of the soup.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad complements the soup’s warmth and adds crunch.

Make it a Meal

• Serve with protein options like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier dish.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens the flavors.

How to Perfect Easy Vegetable Soup

To achieve the best possible flavor and texture in your Easy Vegetable Soup, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also enhance the nutritional value of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You can modify salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate.

• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand for variety.

• Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Just keep an eye on the veggies’ doneness!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegetable Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegetable Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing adds a comforting crunch alongside your warm soup.

2. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides a nutritious boost and contrasts nicely with the soup’s warmth.

4. Stuffed Peppers: These are filling and can be made ahead, making them a convenient option alongside your veggie soup.

5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits add richness and are fantastic for dipping.

6. Roasted Veggies: Complementing the vegetable theme, roasted veggies bring out deep flavors that harmonize well with the soup.

7. Pasta Salad: A refreshing pasta salad can add texture and balance the warmth of the soup.

8. Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad offers a refreshing finish after enjoying your savory bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Vegetable Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables first enhances their flavors. Always take time to sauté before adding broth.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is crucial for flavor. Choose a low-sodium vegetable broth or make your own for the best taste.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoned soup can be bland. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Chopping vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Ensure all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Adding frozen vegetables too early: If you add frozen corn and peas too soon, they can become mushy. Wait until near the end of cooking to add them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Vegetable Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers since soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Easy Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Vegetable Soup that you might find helpful.

Can I customize my Easy Vegetable Soup?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like or have on hand. This soup is very flexible!

How long does Easy Vegetable Soup last in the refrigerator?

Easy Vegetable Soup lasts about 4 days in an airtight container when stored properly in the fridge.

Can I make Easy Vegetable Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

What are some good sides to serve with Easy Vegetable Soup?

Serve with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh herbs can enhance flavor significantly. Add them towards the end of cooking for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for any meal and makes great leftovers, so why not give it a try? Enjoy experimenting!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Vegetable Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Easy Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that brings warmth and nourishment to any table. This vibrant and hearty soup is packed with an array of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, making it a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy weeknight meal or looking to use up leftover veggies, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be tailored to your taste. With its rich flavors and nutritious profile, you’ll find yourself reaching for a second bowl in no time. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly—perfect for meal prep!

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 4 medium carrots (sliced)
• 3 celery ribs (sliced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 Yukon gold potatoes (diced)
• 1 ½ cups chopped fresh green beans
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 6 to 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh lemon juice and parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Stir in potatoes, green beans, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
3. Add frozen corn and peas; cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until heated through.
4. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg