Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs

Name: Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs because it’s not only delicious but incredibly nourishing too. Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, it has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a cold day. I often customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, and it always turns out both vibrant and flavorful. You can’t go wrong with this soup, especially when you need a healthy pick-me-up!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:52:12.792Z

As I explored different ways to incorporate more vegetables into my diet, I stumbled upon this recipe for Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs. The moment I took my first sip, I knew I had created something special. The blend of seasonal vegetables with fresh herbs not only tantalized my taste buds but also filled my kitchen with a beautiful aroma.

One helpful tip I learned while making this soup is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients. This simple step enhances the overall flavor base tremendously. It’s a game-changer, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables
Deliciously fragrant with a medley of herbs
Versatile and easy to customize based on seasonal produce

      

Ingredient Insights

Choosing fresh vegetables is crucial for achieving vibrant flavors and textures in this Healthy Vegetable Soup. Opt for seasonal produce when possible; for example, green beans and peas can replace zucchini and bell peppers. When selecting your vegetables, look for those that are firm, brightly colored, and free from blemishes. Fresh herbs also play a significant role, enhancing the soup's aroma and taste. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh varieties deliver a more pronounced flavor.

The vegetable broth forms the base of this soup, contributing depth and richness. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought options work well too; just be mindful of sodium levels, as they can vary significantly. If you want to boost the nutrition even further, consider adding a handful of leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They will wilt slightly while adding lots of vitamins without overwhelming the other flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic at the start isn't just about flavor; it sets the foundation for the entire dish. This process caramelizes the sugars in the onion, bringing out a subtle sweetness and complexity. Make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning, which can lead to bitterness. Cooking until the onion turns translucent, usually around 3–4 minutes, guarantees that they release their moisture and pair perfectly with the remaining ingredients.

When adding the vegetables, aim to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure that they cook evenly. For instance, slicing carrots into thin rounds rather than chunky pieces allows them to soften within the same timeframe as firmer vegetables like zucchini. This will not only improve texture but also create a more inviting presentation. If you prefer a chunkier soup, consider adding the vegetables in stages, starting with the harder ones to give them a head start.

Ingredients

Gather fresh ingredients to ensure the best flavor in your soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Enjoy this healthy vegetable soup with a slice of whole-grain bread for a delightful meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your comforting vegetable soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they are translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Add the Rest of the Ingredients

Stir in the sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften a bit.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, followed by the dried thyme and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld.

Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pair this soup with your favorite whole-grain bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge. This soup is super forgiving and works with almost any combination.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Vegetable Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Reheating your soup is straightforward, but be cautious. If reheating from frozen, heat slowly on low to ensure even warming, stirring occasionally to prevent the bottom from scorching. If you've added delicate greens like spinach or kale, reheat just until they are wilted to maintain their color and nutrients. Always taste before serving, adjusting the seasoning as sometimes flavors can mellow during storage.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable soup is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad makes for a well-rounded meal. If you're looking for added protein, consider topping your soup with a dollop of ricotta cheese or a handful of cooked quinoa for a nutty bite. For a heartier version, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich, allowing the warm, gooey cheese to complement the soup's freshness.

To elevate the soup for special occasions, consider serving it in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only adds a rustic appeal but also infuses the soup with additional flavor as the bread soaks up the broth. Additionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil just before serving can enhance the dish's overall taste profile, creating a gourmet experience at home.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop.

→ What other herbs can I use?

You can experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro, or add a bay leaf for extra flavor.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the vegetable broth you use is gluten-free, this soup is suitable for a gluten-free diet.