Vegetable Broth Soup
Vegetable broth soup is a comforting and healthy dish made with an array of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. This light yet nutritious soup is perfect for any time of the year and can be enjoyed as a main or a starter.
Whether you’re looking to eat clean, need a detox meal, or are simply craving a hearty bowl of vegetables, this vegetable broth soup provides a wholesome balance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s also a great base for adding other ingredients like beans, grains, or pasta, making it a versatile option for every palate.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large zucchini, chopped
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
6 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter version)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a fresh finish)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast (optional)
How to Make Vegetable Broth Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Remaining Vegetables
Add the chopped zucchini, green beans, tomatoes, and diced potato to the pot. Stir everything together for a couple of minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water, if using) and add the bay leaf and dried thyme.
Stir the soup to incorporate all the ingredients and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a hint of freshness and acidity, if desired.
Step 4: Serve the Soup
Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, if preferred.
Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Chef’s Notes
Vegetable Variations: This recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, kale, or peas, depending on what you have available or in season.
Broth Options: You can use store-bought or homemade vegetable broth. If you prefer a lighter soup, water can be used as a base, but the broth will provide a deeper, richer flavor.
Protein Additions: To turn this soup into a more substantial meal, add beans (like chickpeas, kidney beans, or lentils) or small grains such as quinoa, rice, or barley.
Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for an easy meal prep option.
Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used for added aroma, and a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 150
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 3g
Fiber: 7g
Vitamin A: 80% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 35% of the Daily Value
Potassium: 15% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Vegetable broth soup is a deliciously light yet nourishing dish that provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as part of a healthy diet or simply as a comforting meal on a cold day, this soup is both filling and versatile. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs makes this soup a wholesome, heartwarming dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Enjoy a bowl of this nutrient-packed soup and feel good knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients!