Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe

Healthy Vegetable Soup

Serves

6–8

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 1 zucchini, chopped

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp salt, or to taste

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp paprika

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped

• Optional add-ins: corn, peas, chickpeas, white beans, lentils

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic and bell pepper; cook 1 minute.

4. Add zucchini, green beans, tomatoes, broth, water, and seasonings.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

6. Cover and cook 20–25 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

7. Stir in spinach or kale and cook 2–3 minutes.

8. Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

🍽 Serving Ideas

• With whole-grain bread or toast

• Topped with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon

• Add grated Parmesan (optional)

• Serve over cooked quinoa or rice for a heartier meal

❓ Q & A / FAQ

Is this soup good for weight loss?

Yes—it’s low-calorie, high-fiber, and filling. Just go light on starchy add-ins.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely:

• Beans or lentils (plant-based)

• Shredded chicken or turkey

• Tofu or tempeh

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes:

• Add all ingredients except leafy greens

• Cook 6–7 hours on low

• Add greens in the last 15 minutes

Can I freeze vegetable soup?

Yes!

• Cool completely

• Freeze up to 3 months

• Thaw overnight and reheat gently

How do I avoid mushy vegetables?

• Add firmer vegetables first

• Add zucchini and greens near the end

• Don’t overboil

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes—add them during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Stored airtight: 4–5 days

Why does my soup taste bland?

Try:

• More salt (little by little)

• Splash of lemon juice or vinegar

• Fresh herbs at the end

• Parmesan rind while simmering (optional)

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes 🎉 naturally gluten-free.