A warm bowl of vegetable soup is the perfect comfort food, ideal for cold days or when you’re looking to enjoy something wholesome and nutritious. This vegetable soup recipe is simple, delicious, and easy to make with fresh or frozen ingredients. Whether you’re cooking on the stove top, using an Instant Pot, or a crock pot, you’ll find a method that fits your schedule. This recipe works great as a vegetable soup base recipe, and you can modify it with additional ingredients like beans, potatoes, or pasta. Let’s dive into how to make this hearty soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and beans)
- 1-2 cups leafy greens like spinach or kale (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time:
Approximately 10 minutes Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping all the vegetables. This will include carrots, celery, zucchini, and garlic. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables for a quicker option, making the recipe even easier.
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.
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Add the Vegetables: Toss in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Stir everything together, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes. The vegetables will start to soften and release their flavors.
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Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth or vegetable stock soup for a richer flavor. Add the canned diced tomatoes along with the thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Simmer: Let the soup simmer over low to medium heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the flavors time to meld together. If you’re looking for a dump and go vegetable soup recipe, you can easily throw everything in a pot and let it simmer without much hands-on time.
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Add Frozen Vegetables: If you’re using frozen mixed vegetables, add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This ensures they don’t get overcooked and retain their texture.
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Final Touches: Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or crackers if desired.
Vegetable Soup on Stove Top or Instant Pot
This vegetable soup on stove top is perfect for a classic approach, but if you’re in a rush, an Instant Pot vegetable soup is a great alternative. For the Instant Pot, simply sauté the vegetables as usual, then set it to cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Afterward, carefully release the pressure and enjoy a quick, flavorful vegetable soup.
No Meat Soups in a Crock Pot
For those who prefer no meat soups in a crock pot, this vegetable soup recipe can easily be adapted. Simply add all ingredients to your slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours, and let the crock pot do the work. This method allows the flavors to deepen and develop over time.
Vegetable Beef Soup with Stew Meat and Frozen Vegetables
If you like a heartier option, try adding some stew meat to this recipe to make a vegetable beef soup with stew meat and frozen vegetables. Just brown the meat before adding it to the pot with the vegetables and broth. The result will be a rich, savory soup that’s perfect for filling up your family on a chilly evening.
Simple Veggie Soup Recipes
This simple veggie soup recipe is a go-to for anyone looking for a light, yet filling dish. You can play around with different vegetables, such as potatoes, bell peppers, or peas, to customize it to your liking. Whether you go for a classic vegetable soup with frozen mixed vegetables or a fresh veggie medley, it’s a versatile option for any time of year.
Conclusion
This vegetable soup recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy, filling meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen ingredients, cooking it on the stove, or opting for a slow cooker or Instant Pot method, you can make a flavorful soup that suits your needs. The combination of vegetables and seasonings gives this soup a comforting taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
