How to Make Simple Vegetable Soup for a Healthy Meal

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with fresh vegetables and bursting with flavor! Today, I’m excited to share my Simple Vegetable Soup recipe with you. This soup is not only a fantastic way to use up those veggies in your fridge, but it also makes for a hearty and healthy meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s perfect for quick family dinners or as a side to your favorite easy pasta recipes. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Loaded with nutritious vegetables, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
• Versatile and customizable; you can add your favorite veggies or grains.
• Great for meal prep; it stores well and tastes even better the next day!
• A comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Easy Healthy Vegetable Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chopped onion (1 large)
• 1 ½ cups chopped carrot (3 to 4 carrots)
• 1 ½ cups chopped celery (2 to 3 stalks)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 teaspoons minced garlic (4 cloves)
• 3/4 teaspoon ground fennel seed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with liquid
• 6 cups (1420ml) vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cups chopped potato (2 medium)
• 3 to 4 heaping cups chopped or shredded cabbage
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice (optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipes Easy:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and tomato paste. Stir frequently and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. The tomato paste should darken slightly, intensifying its flavor.
2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, ground fennel, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This helps release the essential oils from the spices, deepening the flavor.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring the tomato paste dissolves into the liquid.
4. Simmer the Vegetables: Add the chopped potatoes, shredded cabbage, and bay leaves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, partially cover the pot with a lid, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Let the soup cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Add Peas & Finish the Soup: Stir in the frozen peas and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a final touch of brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread, a side salad, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor. The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to make your Easy Veg Soup Recipes Healthy even better:

• Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand. This soup is incredibly versatile!
• If you want to add some protein, consider tossing in some cooked beans or lentils.
• For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in.
• Don’t skip the vinegar or lemon juice; it adds a lovely brightness to the soup!

How to Serve

This Meatless Vegetable Soup Recipe is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these serving suggestions:

• Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
• Pair it with a light salad or a side of creamy garlic pasta for a complete meal.
• For a fun twist, top with some grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

This soup is a fantastic option for meal prep! Here are some tips for storing:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if it thickens in the fridge.

And there you have it! A delicious, healthy, and easy recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. If you’re looking for more healthy options, check out my Green Detox Juice or my Anti-Inflammatory Detox Home Remedy Green Juice. Enjoy your cooking adventure!