Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the comforting aroma of a pot of Homemade Vegetable Soup simmering on the stove. With its medley of colorful vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a rich, hearty broth, this soup is the perfect way to warm your body and soul. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome option for any meal.

This recipe for homemade vegetable soup is easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover vegetables, prepare a healthy dinner, or enjoy a cozy bowl of comfort, this recipe has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Vegetable Soup

Making your own vegetable soup at home has so many benefits. Here’s why you’re going to love this recipe:

• Wholesome Ingredients: Loaded with fresh and frozen vegetables, this soup is a powerhouse of nutrients.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your tastes or use up what you have in the fridge.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Warm, flavorful, and hearty, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for days or freeze for later.
• Easy to Make: This one-pot recipe is simple enough for beginners and requires no fancy equipment.

Ingredients for Homemade Vegetable Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a big pot of this delicious and hearty soup:

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 12 cloves garlic (6 grated, 6 sliced)
• 3 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
• 2 large carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
• 2 large celery stalks, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick pieces
• 8 ounces honey gold or marble potatoes, quartered (about 2 cups)
• 4 ounces fennel bulb, fronds removed, bulb coarsely chopped

For the Broth

• 2 tablespoons vegetable bouillon paste
• 1 Parmesan rind
• 8 cups water

For the Frozen Add-Ins

• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen green beans
• 1 cup frozen peas

For the Garnish

• 1/3 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your own batch of flavorful, nutritious vegetable soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Let the butter melt completely.
2. Stir in the dried basil, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the herbs are fragrant.
3. Add the finely chopped onion, grated garlic, and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Stir occasionally and reduce the heat to medium-low if the onions begin to color too quickly. Cook until the onions are softened and lightly golden, about 6 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Bouillon

1. Stir in the halved grape tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of vegetable bouillon paste.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes, using the back of a spoon to mash the tomatoes gently. This helps release their juices and infuse the soup base with flavor.

Step 3: Add Fresh Vegetables

1. Add the sliced carrots, celery, quartered potatoes, and chopped fennel bulb to the pot.
2. Season with the remaining teaspoon of kosher salt and stir everything together.
3. Cook for 1 minute to heat the vegetables slightly.

Step 4: Add the Broth

1. Add the Parmesan rind and sliced garlic to the pot.
2. Pour in 8 cups of water and bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 20–25 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Frozen Vegetables

1. Remove the Parmesan rind and discard it.
2. Stir in the frozen corn, green beans, and peas. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are thawed and heated through.
3. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	5 g
Total Fat	7 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Carbohydrates	24 g
Fiber	5 g
Sodium	450 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Vegetable Soup

1. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, adding a handful of fresh basil or thyme at the end can enhance the flavor even more.
2. Parmesan Rind: Don’t skip this ingredient! It adds a rich, umami flavor to the broth.
3. Cut Vegetables Evenly: This ensures all the vegetables cook at the same rate, giving you the perfect texture in every bite.
4. Make It Heartier: Add cooked pasta, quinoa, or rice to turn this soup into a filling meal.
5. Adjust the Heat: If you like your soup with a bit of spice, don’t hesitate to increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
6. Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs About Homemade Vegetable Soup

1. Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

Yes! If you’re not vegetarian, chicken or beef broth can add extra depth to the flavor.

2. Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter alternative and skip the Parmesan rind or use a vegan cheese substitute.

3. How do I make the soup thicker?

To make the broth thicker, mash some of the potatoes or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.

4. Can I add beans or lentils?

Definitely! Chickpeas, white beans, or lentils make great additions for added protein and texture.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

6. What can I serve with vegetable soup?

Serve it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion: Make Homemade Vegetable Soup Tonight!

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Homemade Vegetable Soup to bring warmth and comfort to your day. With its nourishing ingredients, customizable flavors, and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or freezing a batch for later, it’s a delicious and healthy option you can feel good about.

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