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: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and nourishing. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a comforting bowl of goodness that warms not only my body but my soul. It’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies in the fridge and is incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence that the whole family can enjoy.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:01:23.606Z

When I first decided to make this Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs, I was looking for a way to incorporate more veggies into my diet without sacrificing flavor. I found that using a variety of colorful vegetables not only made the soup visually appealing but also enhanced its taste. I particularly love adding a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright finish that elevates each spoonful.

During my experimentation, I discovered that allowing the soup to simmer longer brings out a deeper flavor, especially if you add herbs like thyme and parsley. They infuse the broth with a refreshing aroma that makes this dish feel special. It's a meal I can whip up quickly, but it always feels like a labor of love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A colorful mix of fresh vegetables that brighten up your plate
Packed with nutrients and low in calories for a guilt-free treat
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this Healthy Vegetable Soup lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for specific vegetables like zucchini and bell pepper, feel free to swap in whatever you have on hand. For example, kale or spinach can add a nice green touch, while parsnips or sweet potatoes can impart a slight sweetness. Remember to cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly, and consider adding heartier vegetables like potatoes or squash earlier in the cooking process to allow them more time to soften.

Using seasonal vegetables not only enhances the soup's flavor but also increases its nutritional value. During the summer months, incorporating fresh corn or heirloom tomatoes can elevate the dish, while winter root vegetables like turnips or beets can provide richness and earthiness to the broth. Keep an eye out for vibrant colors when selecting your produce, as they often indicate higher nutrient content.

Essential Cooking Techniques

Sauteing the aromatics at the beginning is a crucial step for maximizing the soup's flavor. The contrast of heat helps release the natural oils, especially from the onions and garlic, creating a fragrant base. Aim for a translucent look with the onions, about 5-7 minutes on medium heat, before adding the remaining ingredients. If you jump straight to adding the broth, the broth may be tasty but won't have that developed depth of flavor.

When simmering the soup, keep the heat low enough that you see gentle bubbles breaking the surface. A rolling boil can overcook the softer vegetables like zucchini and bell pepper, leading to a mushy texture. It’s also important to occasionally stir the soup to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom, particularly the floury bits from the onions, which can scorch and add bitterness to the dish.

Ingredients

Vegetable Soup Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

These ingredients combine to create a nutritious and delicious soup that everyone will love!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the zucchini, bell pepper, vegetable broth, green beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, and oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice just before serving for a fresh flavor boost. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!

Your healthy soup is ready to warm you up!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand or swap in your favorite herbs for a personalized touch!

Storage and Reheating

This Healthy Vegetable Soup is an excellent dish to make ahead, as the flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge. Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months; just remember to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to bring back the original consistency, as soups may thicken upon cooling. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and check for seasoning before serving, as flavors can mellow over time.

Serving Suggestions

For a heartier meal, consider adding a protein component such as cooked lentils, shredded chicken, or beans once the soup is finished. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also keeps you fuller for longer. Pair the soup with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad to create a complete, satisfying meal.

To elevate your soup presentation, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of extra parsley or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of grated cheese right before serving introduces a creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the soup's warmth and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but double-check your vegetable broth to ensure it's gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I add to make it heartier?

You can add cooked grains like rice, quinoa, or lentils to make the soup more filling.