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Hearty Vegetable Soup

A comforting bowl of Hearty Vegetable Soup filled with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for that silky base
  • 1 medium onion, chopped the aromatic backbone
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced a burst of flavor
Vegetables
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced for a hint of sweetness
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped crunchy goodness
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced a pop of color
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced adds a soft texture
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut fresh crunch
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained for the base
  • 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth for non-vegetarians
Seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste the seasoning essentials
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or a dash of fresh herbs, your herb of choice for fragrance
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed for added protein, optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Toss in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Stir continuously for another 5 minutes.
  2. Add zucchini and green beans next, giving a good stir.
  3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
  4. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and thyme, adjusting to your taste.
  5. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
  6. If desired, stir in chickpeas for a heartier version during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  7. Ladle the soup into warm bowls and enjoy.

Notes

This soup is even better on the second day, so consider making it ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.