There is something truly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, and this Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly that—a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. It’s nourishing, packed with flavor, and so easy to whip up on a busy day. This soup brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create layers of texture and taste, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your culinary rotation all year long. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, this soup delivers on all fronts with heart and soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role. From tender carrots adding a subtle sweetness to the earthy potatoes providing a creamy bite, every element combines to make this soup comforting and well-balanced.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: The base for sautéing, olive oil brings a rich, smooth flavor while helping to soften the vegetables.
- 3 carrots, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Delivers a mild, aromatic crunch that enhances the soup’s depth.
- 1 cup yellow onion, chopped: Provides a savory backbone and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Offers a warm, pungent note that awakens the senses.
- 32 oz vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together and keeps the soup hearty.
- 30 oz canned diced tomatoes (with liquid): Brings acidity, juiciness, and a nice tang that balances the earthiness.
- 3 Yukon gold potatoes, chopped: Adds a creamy, tender texture that makes each spoonful feel indulgent.
- 1 cup green beans, chopped: Offers a fresh bite and a beautiful green hue to the mix.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs giving the soup depth and a touch of rustic charm.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that heighten all the natural flavors.
How to Make Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and yellow onion, and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they soften and start releasing their natural sweetness. This step is key to building a rich foundation of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma
Next, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it just for 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—this quick step infuses the soup with a warm, inviting aroma that makes it impossible to wait for the finished dish.
Step 3: Combine Liquids and Vegetables
Pour in the vegetable broth along with canned diced tomatoes including their juice. Stir in the chopped potatoes and green beans. Then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This colorful mix of ingredients is what makes the Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe so fulfilling and tasty in every spoonful.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. During this time, the potatoes and green beans become perfectly tender, absorbing all the lovely herbs and broth flavors, transforming the soup into a warm hug in a bowl.
Step 5: Finish with Frozen Veggies
Finally, stir in a handful of frozen corn and peas. Let the soup cook for another 2 minutes until these last-minute additions are heated through. This step adds a pop of sweetness and an extra burst of color that makes the soup visually appealing and more nutrient-rich.
How to Serve Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your soup experience, garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a swirl of pesto can also add a delightful finish and boost the flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad. The hearty soup plus crisp bread combo is a classic that never disappoints, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls to bring out the cozy vibe or pour it into mini mason jars for a charming presentation at casual gatherings. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of toasted nuts can introduce exciting textures and toppings, making each serving unique.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week without any sacrifice in flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to save soup for a longer time, freezing is your best option. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. The soup will maintain its quality for up to 3 months, ready to warm you up on chilly nights.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover and stir halfway through to retain its delicious consistency and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! This Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe is very flexible. Feel free to swap or add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and store in appropriate containers. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy days.
How thick or thin should the soup be?
This recipe intentionally keeps a balanced, broth-based texture that’s hearty but not too thick. If you prefer thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes before serving or simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
You can! Start by sautéing the vegetables first, then transfer all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
What can I serve this soup with for a complete meal?
Pair the soup with warm bread or a fresh salad for light meals, or add a side of grilled cheese sandwiches or roasted chicken for something more filling. This soup is versatile enough to suit any meal occasion.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, don’t hesitate to give this Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe a try. It’s endlessly flexible, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite—simple ingredients transformed into something truly special with just a little love and patience.
Print
Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This hearty vegetable soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for any season. Made with a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in flavorful vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, it offers a nutritious and delicious option for a light meal. Easy to prepare and packed with vitamins, this soup is ideal for a quick weekday dinner or as a starter for a larger meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 Yukon gold potatoes, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen peas
Liquids & Seasonings
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 32 oz vegetable broth
- 30 oz canned diced tomatoes (with liquid)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and add chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the garlic aroma.
- Add Broth and Veggies: Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes along with their liquid. Add the chopped Yukon gold potatoes and green beans to the pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes or until the potatoes and green beans are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Frozen Corn and Peas: Stir in the frozen corn and peas, continuing to cook for another 2 minutes, just until heated through to maintain their texture and sweetness.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute any vegetables with your favorites or what you have on hand.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding frozen vegetables.
- Adjust seasoning with additional Italian herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
