Hearty Vegetable Soup

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Equipment:
Large pot
cutting board
knife
wooden spoon
measuring cups
measuring spoons
Cuisine Type: Vegetarian
Hearty Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that brings together a variety of fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. This soup isn’t only easy to prepare but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal any day of the week.
The combination of carrots, potatoes, and green beans provides a satisfying texture and rich taste, while the addition of herbs adds depth and aroma. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side dish, this Hearty Vegetable Soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. It’s also a great make-ahead option, as the flavors meld beautifully if stored in the refrigerator overnight.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the soup and adds a lovely aroma.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the diced potatoes and green beans, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the vegetables are tender and the soup has reached your desired flavor, remove it from the heat. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an extra touch of freshness.
Extra Tips:
For a heartier version of this soup, consider adding cooked beans or lentils for protein. You can also experiment with different seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to keep the soup exciting.
If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back in. This Hearty Vegetable Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a perfect meal prep option.