If you’ve been searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both nourishing and light, look no further than this Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe. Packed with vibrant, fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction without loading you with extra calories. It’s a simple, wholesome way to enjoy your daily dose of veggies in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that work together beautifully to create depth and balance. Each item plays a role, whether it’s adding sweetness, crunch, or a rich tomato base that ties everything together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The perfect heart-healthy fat to gently sauté your aromatics and enrich the flavors.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings fragrant warmth and a touch of subtle spice.
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, zucchini, green beans): A fresh, colorful blend that delivers crunch, fiber, and vibrant flavor.
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and sweetness, creating a bright and hearty broth.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth: Keeps the soup light and healthy while boosting flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that tie all the ingredients together effortlessly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every component.
How to Make Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Once warmed, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently for about three minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its gorgeous aroma. This first step builds a flavorful foundation you don’t want to skip.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth
Next, toss in your mix of fresh vegetables, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, and the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the veggies are evenly distributed. Then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. This combination starts to simmer into a vibrant, comforting soup base.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the pot to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently. Give it about 20 minutes for the vegetables to soften perfectly, allowing their individual flavors to meld into one harmonious, healthy vegetable soup. Keep an eye on it to taste for seasoning as it cooks.
How to Serve Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While the soup itself is fantastic on its own, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a few leaves of spinach stirred in at the last minute add an extra pop of color and nutrition. A dash of freshly ground black pepper or even a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully right before serving.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, pair this soup with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad. The bread is excellent for dipping into the savory broth, while a light salad can complement the rich vegetable medley with contrasting textures and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel, or if you’re entertaining, ladle it into small mugs as a warm appetizer. You can also top it with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or pesto for an unexpected twist that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making your leftovers even more delicious and convenient for quick meals later on.
Freezing
If you want to keep this soup on hand longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of water or broth if it’s thicker than you’d like. Microwave reheating works well too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to rewarm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh in this Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen veggies are a great time-saver and work wonderfully in this soup. Just add them directly to the pot after sautéing the aromatics and simmer a little longer if needed until everything is tender.
Is this soup suitable for people following a vegan diet?
Yes, this Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe is entirely vegan and plant-based. It focuses on fresh vegetables, herbs, and vegetable broth without any animal products, making it perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets.
Can I add protein to this soup to make it more filling?
Definitely! Adding cooked beans, lentils, or even quinoa can boost the protein content while keeping the soup healthy and hearty. Just stir in your choice of protein during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
How spicy is this soup, and can I adjust the heat?
This version is mild and comforting, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat. Adjust the spice level to your taste as it simmers for the best flavor integration.
Is it okay to omit the Italian seasoning if I don’t have it on hand?
Yes, you can replace Italian seasoning with a mix of your favorite dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary. These herbs will keep the soup fragrant and delicious even if you don’t have the pre-mixed blend.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe is truly a friend to your kitchen and your wellbeing—a dish that’s easy to prepare, endlessly comforting, and wonderfully nourishing. Whether you need a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful. Give it a try and enjoy the beautiful flavors of fresh vegetables in a warm, wholesome bowl.
Print
Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This healthy vegetable soup is a light yet filling dish packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and robust flavors. Made with a blend of sautéed onions, garlic, mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, and low-sodium vegetable broth, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, zucchini, green beans)
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in the mixed vegetables, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), and low-sodium vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
Notes
- For extra nutrition, stir in a handful of spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- This soup is excellent for meal prep and can be stored well in the fridge for several days.
- You can customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability or preference.
- Use low-sodium broth to keep sodium levels low and control seasoning.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
