This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a wholesome and comforting dish packed with fresh vegetables and rich flavors. It’s perfect for any season, bringing together the warmth of a homemade soup with the goodness of nutrient-dense ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light yet filling meal or a hearty side dish, this soup is a versatile option. With a delightful combination of root vegetables, greens, and herbs, it offers a medley of textures and flavors that satisfy both your body and soul. Best of all, it’s easy to make, ideal for meal prep, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Parmesan cheese and lemon juice for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add the Vegetables:
Toss in the carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. - Simmer the Soup:
Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. - Add the Greens:
Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender. - Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Remove the bay leaf and discard. For a richer flavor, drizzle with a bit of lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. - Garnish and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or as a light meal on its own.
Optional Variations:
- Add cooked beans (such as cannellini or chickpeas) for added protein.
- For a heartier version, stir in cooked pasta or quinoa.
- Swap out vegetables based on the season or what you have on hand—corn, peas, or sweet potatoes are great additions.
This Hearty Vegetable Soup is perfect for cold days or as a light, satisfying meal year-round. Plus, it’s even better the next day, as the flavors deepen when left to meld overnight!