Name: Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil or butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 ribs celery, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 oz) can diced tomato; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables; 2 russet potatoes, diced into 1/2 inch pieces; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Kosher salt and pepper to taste; 4-6 cups vegetable broth; 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; Red pepper flakes; Parmesan cheese; Fresh herbs; Crusty bread

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 36 reviews

If you’re looking for a comforting, nourishing dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s packed with wholesome veggies, tangy tomatoes, and fresh herbs that come together in a heartwarming broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or someone craving a foolproof soup, this recipe promises straightforward steps and satisfying results every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of several small white bowls and a glass measuring cup arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, each filled with different fresh ingredients. In the center, a white bowl holds a mix of frozen vegetables including green beans, orange carrot slices, and green peas. Surrounding this are bowls with pale yellow diced potatoes, light tan chickpeas, finely chopped green parsley, small white diced onions, bright green chopped celery, and finely chopped white garlic. A larger white bowl contains bright red diced tomatoes, and a glass measuring cup has smooth red tomato sauce. Small white bowls hold golden vegetable broth, olive oil, Italian seasoning with a mix of green and brown, and salt and pepper. The textures vary from smooth liquid to chunky vegetables, creating a colorful and organized cooking setup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be fooled by this soup’s ease; the ingredients play a vital role in layering flavor, texture, and beautiful color into every spoonful. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious balance between fresh, hearty, and savory.

1 Tablespoon olive oil or butter: Adds a silky richness and helps soften the aromatics for depth of flavor.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Gives a sweet and slightly pungent base that forms the soup’s flavor backbone.
2 ribs celery, chopped: Offers a subtle crunch and refreshing earthiness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and an irresistible aroma that makes the soup cozy.
1 (28 oz) can diced tomato: Introduces bright acidity and vibrant color.
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato intensity and enriches the broth texture.
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Adds protein, creaminess, and satisfying body.
1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables: A convenient way to boost veggie variety and nutrients.
2 russet potatoes, diced into ½ inch pieces: Provide a comforting, hearty bite and help thicken the broth naturally.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant herbal blend that lifts the soup with notes of oregano, basil, and thyme.
Kosher salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance all the flavors.
4-6 cups vegetable broth: The soul of the soup; enough to create a luscious, savory liquid that carries all ingredients.
2 Tablespoons lemon juice (about ½ a lemon): Introduces a zesty brightness that revives and refreshes the soup’s profile.
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds bursts of fresh herbal brightness both in flavor and appearance.
For serving – red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, crusty bread: Optional extras to personalize each bowl with spice, richness, and texture.

How to Make Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and chopped celery and cook them gently until the onion is translucent and the mixture is soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful foundation. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it smells heavenly — that garlicky aroma is a sign your soup is already almost irresistible.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to meld those bright and rich tomato flavors together. Add in the drained chickpeas, frozen mixed vegetables, and diced russet potatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and pour 4 cups of vegetable broth into the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine, then crank the heat to medium-high and bring it to a boiling bubble. It’s exciting to see your soup coming to life!

Step 3: Simmer Until Perfect

Once boiling, lower the heat and let your soup simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when all the ingredients get to know each other, and the potatoes soften to a tender, fork-friendly texture. This simmering stage is crucial for developing those deep, comforting flavors that make this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe so beloved.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Finishing Touches

After simmering, it’s time for seasoning magic. Stir in salt, pepper, lemon juice, and fresh parsley to brighten and elevate the soup’s overall flavor. If you prefer a thinner broth, slowly add up to 2 more cups of vegetable broth until you reach your favorite consistency. Always taste at this stage — the perfect balance of seasoning is what turns a good soup into an outstanding one!

How to Serve Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe

A large white pot filled with a colorful vegetable stew, showing at least four layers: a bright red tomato broth base, topped with chunks of light beige potatoes and chickpeas scattered throughout, mixed with thin orange carrot sticks, green peas, green beans, and yellow corn kernels. A woman's hand is holding a wooden spoon stirring the stew, and some green dried herbs are sprinkled on top. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes can transform your soup from comforting to celebratory. Try sprinkling red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, a shower of parmesan cheese for savory richness, or a handful of freshly chopped herbs like more parsley or basil for freshness. These little touches add pops of flavor and an inviting look that makes every bowl feel special.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside some crusty bread or warm, buttery rolls to soak up the delicious broth. A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables can round out the meal beautifully. These sides keep the meal light but still satisfyingly complete, balancing the textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bowl your soup into rustic bread bowls or serve it in individual mugs to cozy up for a casual lunch. Try layering some toasted croutons or crispy chickpeas on top for crunch. Playing with presentation can make your Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe feel like a fresh experience every time you make it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to mingle. Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, give it a quick stir and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

If you want to keep this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing any of its vibrant flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s hot throughout. If the soup thickens too much while reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables work wonderfully in this Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your veggies are very fresh and crisp—they might take a little longer to soften compared to frozen veggies.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free as written. Just be sure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, and skip the parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese if you want to keep it fully plant-based.

Can I add other beans or lentils?

Definitely! Chickpeas add a creamy texture and protein, but feel free to swap them with your favorite beans or even lentils. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure they become tender and flavorful.

What can I do if the soup is too watery?

If you find your soup a bit thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken naturally. Adding more diced potatoes can also help absorb excess liquid and add heartiness.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Easy! Add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or extra at serving. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe is truly one of those dependable recipes that feel like an old friend—warm, welcoming, and endlessly adaptable. It’s quick enough to whip up any day of the week and nourishing enough to satisfy your soul. I hope you give it a try and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delicious and effortlessly comforting.