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 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium carrots, sliced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making a hearty pot of Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs during those cooler months. It’s an easy one-pot meal that warms me up from the inside out. This recipe combines an array of colorful vegetables, fresh herbs, and spices for incredible flavor and nutrition. Preparing this soup is a wonderful way to utilize seasonal produce, and it makes for great leftovers. Plus, it’s comforting and nourishing, making it perfect for those chilly evenings spent at home.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:01:17.662Z

When I first made this Healthy Vegetable Soup with Herbs, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so flavorful. I used a variety of vegetables I had on hand, including carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, and added fresh herbs from my garden. This not only enhanced the taste but also made it fragrant.

One tip I learned is to sauté the onions and garlic first before adding any broth or water. This first step really deepens the flavors and gives the soup a robust base. I often customize the herbs according to the season, which makes it a delightful dish any time of year!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables that nourish the body
Loaded with fresh herbs that elevate the flavor
A versatile recipe that allows for customization based on personal preference

      

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of dried thyme and basil in this Healthy Vegetable Soup makes for an aromatic experience that greatly enhances the flavor profile. Thyme adds a warm, earthy tone, while basil brings a fresh, slightly sweet note. To intensify the herb flavors, consider adding fresh herbs towards the end of cooking. They retain more vibrant flavors and aromas when added last. If you enjoy a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can also complement the earthy vegetables beautifully.

For an additional flavor layer, try incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. This acidity can brighten the soup and balance the richness of the vegetables and broth, making each spoonful more refreshing. If you have leftover wine, a small amount added during the simmering phase can add depth, too.

Ingredient Insights

Each vegetable in this Healthy Vegetable Soup serves a purpose, both in flavor and texture. Carrots add natural sweetness and a satisfying crispness, while zucchini and bell peppers provide moisture and a tender bite. If you prefer, feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables such as spinach or kale—just remember to add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking. Instead of bell peppers, you could use eggplant or even sweet corn for a different twist.

Choosing high-quality vegetable broth is crucial since it serves as the soup's foundation. A homemade broth can provide richer flavor and enhanced nutrients. If you're in a pinch, low-sodium store-bought options work well but be sure to taste for salt, as they often contain more sodium than homemade versions. Keeping canned diced tomatoes on hand not only adds acidity to the soup but also enhances its color and consistency, providing a hearty texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This vegetable soup is an excellent dish for meal prep; it stores wonderfully and often tastes even better the next day. After cooking, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider portioning the soup into smaller containers for convenient reheating. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating this soup is easy; just gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If you find the soup has thickened in the refrigerator or freezer, add a splash of water or additional broth while reheating to restore its desired consistency. Served alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad, this Healthy Vegetable Soup makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal any time.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to add any additional vegetables you enjoy or have on hand!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a hearty and delicious soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Garnish

Remove the pot from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your healthy and vibrant vegetable soup!

Pro Tips

To make this soup even heartier, you can add cooked beans or lentils for added protein. Additionally, serve it with a crusty piece of bread for a complete meal!

Variations to Try

This Healthy Vegetable Soup is highly adaptable, allowing you to cater to your tastes. If you’re a fan of legumes, add a can of chickpeas or kidney beans for protein, making it a more filling meal. You could also experiment by adding grains like quinoa or barley to increase the heartiness of the dish. They will soak up the flavors of the broth and give the soup an additional texture.

For a creamy version of this soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender after simmering. This will create a luscious base while maintaining chunky vegetable pieces for textural contrast. Alternatively, stirring in a dollop of Greek yogurt or some coconut milk can add creaminess and a unique flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Healthy Vegetable Soup can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Freshly chopped herbs like basil or thyme sprinkled on top right before serving can enhance the visual appeal and freshness. I love to serve it with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an added richness and depth.

Consider pairing your soup with a side of whole-grain bread or a light salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil creates a bright, crunchy contrast that complements the warmth of the soup. If hosting, serve it in individual bowls for a cozy dinner or as a starter in small cups for a gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this vegetable soup?

Yes, this soup freezes very well! Just store it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like green beans, spinach, or potatoes. This recipe is quite versatile!

→ Is there a way to make this soup thicker?

You can blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back in to create a creamy texture or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.

→ How long will the soup last in the fridge?

In the refrigerator, this soup will last for about 3 to 5 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.