Easy Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added flavor)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Dice, slice, and chop all the vegetables as indicated.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Vegetables:
    • Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • Stir in the potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
    • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and vegetable broth.
    • Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried basil.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer:
    • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
    • Cover and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
  6. Add Optional Vegetables:
    • If using, add the frozen corn and peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  7. Final Touches:
    • Remove the bay leaf.
    • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade vegetable soup! It’s great on its own or served with a side of crusty bread.

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