Easy Vegetable Soup

The aroma of fresh herbs and simmering vegetables fills the air as you prepare a deliciously comforting bowl of soup. This Easy Vegetable Soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious option for any day of the week. The vibrant colors and hearty texture create a satisfying dish, perfect for warming your soul.

This recipe is ideal for busy families, health-conscious individuals, or anyone looking for a wholesome meal. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a light lunch. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s packed with fresh vegetables that provide numerous health benefits.
• The soup is quick and easy to prepare, taking only 30 minutes.
• It’s a one-pot meal, simplifying clean-up while delivering great flavor.
• You can customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make this hearty soup.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced

For the Added Vegetables

• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth

For Seasoning and Greens

• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups spinach or kale

Olive oil can be replaced with any cooking oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use fresh herbs instead of dried.
• Add your favorite seasonal vegetables.
• Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option.
• Use kale in place of spinach.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your soup.

1. Heat

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Sauté

Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.

3. Add

Add carrots and celery; sauté for another 5 minutes.

4. Stir

Stir in zucchini and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes.

5. Combine

Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.

6. Boil

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

7. Mix

Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

8. Serve

Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: On the stove over low heat for 10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Chop vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
• Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor.
• Adjust the greens based on seasonal availability.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
• Pair with a light salad for a delightful lunch.
• Enjoy as a starter for a cozy dinner gathering.