Hearty Vegetable Soup

This hearty vegetable soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish made with a colorful medley of vegetables, legumes, and tender pasta or dumplings. Rich in nutrients and perfect for cold weather, it’s a one-pot meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Serve it with crusty bread for a wholesome lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with vegetables, fiber, and plant-based protein
• Naturally vegan and easy to adapt
• One-pot convenience with minimal cleanup
• Customizable with your favorite seasonal ingredients
• Freezer-friendly for batch cooking

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, diced
• Carrots, peeled and chopped
• Celery, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Vegetable broth
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Cooked or canned chickpeas or lentils
• Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Green beans or spinach
• Small pasta (like ditalini, shells, or orzo) or dumplings
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper
• Bay leaf (optional)
• Paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté the aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.
2. Add broth and tomatoes:
   Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine.
3. Add vegetables and legumes:
   Stir in chickpeas or lentils, corn, green beans or spinach, and season with salt, pepper, and spices. Add a bay leaf if using.
4. Simmer:
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
5. Add pasta or dumplings:
   Stir in small pasta or dumplings and cook according to package directions, typically 8–10 minutes. Add more broth or water as needed.
6. Finish and serve:
   Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add meat: Stir in shredded chicken, turkey, or sausage for a heartier soup.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Barley or rice: Replace pasta with cooked barley or brown rice for a different texture.
• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream for richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. If using pasta, consider adding it fresh after reheating to avoid sogginess.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water or broth to loosen if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well and reduce prep time. Add them directly to the simmering broth.

What type of pasta is best?

Small shapes like ditalini, orzo, or macaroni cook evenly and are easy to eat in soup.

How do I prevent the pasta from absorbing too much broth?

Cook pasta separately and add just before serving, especially if storing leftovers.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this version is vegan. Ensure your broth is vegetable-based and free of animal products.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Use 1 teaspoon dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh.

How do I make it more filling?

Add legumes, grains, or protein such as beans, lentils, quinoa, or tofu.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except pasta to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add pasta during the final 30 minutes.

Does it freeze well?

Yes, though it’s best to freeze without pasta to avoid mushy texture upon reheating.

What kind of broth should I use?

A rich, low-sodium vegetable broth is ideal. Homemade broth adds extra flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Conclusion

Hearty vegetable soup is a timeless, nourishing dish perfect for all seasons. Whether made with pantry staples or fresh farmer’s market finds, it’s a flexible and rewarding recipe that suits every table. Warm, filling, and easy to prepare, this soup will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

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