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 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice; 1 cup leafy greens (spinach or kale); 1 cup of your favorite beans

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs, especially on chilly days. The vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables brings a burst of freshness and nourishment to every bowl. This recipe not only quickens the cooking process with its easy techniques, but it also allows for customization based on what’s in my fridge. The addition of fresh herbs transforms the flavors, making it a wholesome meal that we often enjoy as a family. It’s a comforting dish that truly warms both the body and the spirit.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:31:14.229Z

During my experimentation with soups, I discovered that using fresh herbs elevates the dish to a new level. This Healthy Vegetable Soup combines classic ingredients like carrots and celery with parsley and thyme to enrich the flavor. I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so vibrant!

One of the best tips I've found is to sauté the vegetables before adding broth. This brief step caramelizes their sugars, creating a deeper flavor base. It's a game changer that I now incorporate into all my vegetable soup recipes, ensuring every spoonful is packed with goodness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light yet filling, perfect for any meal of the day
Packed with nutrients from a variety of fresh vegetables
Easy to customize with your favorite seasonal ingredients

      

Customizing Your Soup

One of the wonderful aspects of this Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs is its versatility. You can easily alter the vegetable combination depending on what you have on hand. For instance, if you're missing zucchini, consider adding green beans or butternut squash instead. Each seasonal vegetable imparts its unique flavor and nutritional profile. If you have any leftover roasted vegetables, feel free to toss them in for added depth and a satisfying twist.

Don't hesitate to get creative with the herbs as well. While fresh parsley and thyme elevate the taste, herbs like dill or basil can lend a completely different flavor experience. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes right before serving can transform the dish into a warm, comforting bowl that's perfect for cold days.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, although its flavors will deepen over time. If you'd like to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. It freezes well for up to three months; just be sure to leave some space in the container as soups can expand when frozen.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if it appears thickened and stir until heated through. For a quick option, microwave portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, pausing to stir halfway. Just be cautious of hot spots to avoid burning your tongue!

Serving Ideas for Your Soup

This Healthy Vegetable Soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh side salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a quinoa or brown rice bowl. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can take it to the next level, providing creaminess and a rich flavor contrast to the vibrant vegetables.

If you're looking to cater to a crowd, serve your soup in a bread bowl for a fun and interactive meal. Guests can enjoy the soup and then savor the bread at the end. Just ensure to choose a sturdy bread like sourdough so that it holds up well during serving!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a delicious vegetable soup that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Vegetables

2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped

Herbs and Spices

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids

4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

Optional Add-ins

1 cup leafy greens (spinach or kale)
1 cup of your favorite beans

Feel free to experiment with your choice of vegetables and herbs to make this soup uniquely yours!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious and nutritious vegetable soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced zucchini, bell pepper, thyme, parsley, diced tomatoes with juice, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add Optional Ingredients

If using, stir in leafy greens and beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.

Pair this soup with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider roasting your vegetables before adding them to the broth. It gives a lovely caramelized taste to the soup.

Understanding Ingredients

The key to great flavor in this soup lies in the soffritto of onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. This aromatic base is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor. Cooking these ingredients in olive oil until they're softened not only enhances their sweetness but also allows them to release their essential oils, adding depth to the entire dish.

Using fresh produce whenever possible not only elevates the soup's taste but also boosts its nutritional value. Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini are packed with vitamins and minerals. If you're looking for a heartier twist, consider including root vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes, which can add creaminess and body to the soup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your soup lacks flavor, don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning. Taste it after the simmering stage and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. The balance of flavors can vary based on the freshness of your vegetables and broth, so it's always good to taste as you go.

In case your soup turns out too thick, simply add in additional vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. If it's too watery, cooking it a bit longer can help deepen the flavors and refine the texture. Keeping an eye on it while it simmers will help you find that perfect heartiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this vegetable soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out any leafy greens or beans that may become mushy after thawing.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes for added variety.

→ Is this soup vegetarian?

Yes, this Healthy Vegetable Soup is completely vegetarian, made with vegetable broth and fresh vegetables.

→ How can I make it spicier?

To add some heat, consider including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing process.