Easy Vegetable Soup

Easy Vegetable Soup simmers tbsp olive oil with medium yellow onion for a comforting bowl that tastes full and homemade.
About This Recipe
Easy Vegetable Soup gets its flavor from building the pot in stages.
Soften the aromatics first, add the main ingredients, and simmer until the broth tastes rounded.
Ingredients
- ✓2 Tbsp olive oil
- ✓1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- ✓2 large carrots (chopped)
- ✓1 cup chopped celery
- ✓28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- ✓60 oz vegetable broth (u00A0low-sodium)
- ✓3 medium potatoes (diced)
- ✓1 cup green beans (chopped)
- ✓3 bay leaves
- ✓2 tsp salt (or to taste*)
- ✓1 tsp ground black pepper
- ✓1 cup frozen sweet corn
- ✓1 cup frozen sweet peas
- ✓1/2 cup green onions (chopped)
- ✓1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Ingredient Notes
- Aromatics: Onion, garlic, celery, or spices should soften before the liquid goes in.
- Broth: Use a broth you like because it carries the whole bowl.
- Beans Or Legumes: Simmer until fully tender before adjusting the final texture.
- Finishing Salt: Taste at the end because soups change as they reduce.
Instructions
- 1
Preheat a heavy soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add 2 Tbsp olive oil. Add chopped onions and carrots and saute for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden.
- 2
Add celery, canned tomatoes (with juice), broth, potatoes, green beans, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 25 minutes.
- 3
Once the vegetables are tender, add corn, sweet peas, green onion, and parsley. Season with salt to taste and simmer for another 5-8 minutes. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Start by softening aromatics to build a flavorful base.
- Simmer gently instead of boiling hard.
- Taste and adjust salt near the end.
- Add delicate herbs or dairy after the strongest heat has passed.
Variations and Substitutions
- More vegetables: Add greens, carrots, corn, potatoes, or mushrooms.
- Spicier bowl: Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or fresh chiles.
- Creamy finish: Stir in cream, coconut milk, or blended vegetables.
- Heartier meal: Serve over rice, noodles, or with bread.
What to Serve With Easy Vegetable Soup
Serve Easy Vegetable Soup with crusty bread, cornbread, rice, salad, or a simple sandwich.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth or water if the soup thickens.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling too hard: A rough boil can make meat tough and vegetables mushy.
- Adding dairy too early: Creamy ingredients can split under high heat.
- Forgetting salt at the end: Soup often needs final seasoning after simmering.
- Thin flavor: A little acid, herbs, or extra simmering can deepen the bowl.
FAQ
Can I make Easy Vegetable Soup ahead?
Yes. Soups and stews often taste better after resting.
Can I freeze it?
Broth-based soups usually freeze well; creamy soups need gentle reheating.
How do I thicken it?
Simmer uncovered, blend a small portion, or add a little thickener.
How do I brighten the flavor?
Add salt carefully, then finish with herbs, citrus, vinegar, or pepper.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 167 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Sodium: 753 mg
- Sugar: 7 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g