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comforting homemade vegetable soup

Homemade Vegetable Soup

This comforting homemade vegetable soup combines fresh produce with aromatic herbs for a nourishing meal that's both versatile and flavorful. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a healthy lunch option, this soup transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying dish that surpasses any store-bought alternative.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 cups water
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 4 ribs celery diced
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon additional dried herbs like basil or parsley
  • 3 carrots diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper adjust to taste
Optional additions
  • 1 leek white part thoroughly cleaned and finely chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Immersion blender
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Wash and trim the onion, carrots, and celery, then dice them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large, non-stick pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery).
  3. Stir occasionally and cook for 7-10 minutes until the vegetables have softened nicely.
  4. Add the minced garlic and dried herbs, stirring to combine.
  5. Pour in the water and reduce heat to low. Allow the soup to gently simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can use an electric mixer if you don't have an immersion blender.
  7. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
  8. Optional: For a heartier soup, add barley, rice, pasta, beans, or additional vegetables and simmer until tender. For a creamier version, stir in a cup of cream or half-and-half at the end.

Notes

This soup is incredibly versatile - feel free to customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. For extra flavor, substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the water. The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple side salad.
To make this soup even more nutritious, add a handful of leafy greens like spinach or kale just before serving. They'll wilt perfectly in the hot soup while maintaining their vibrant color and nutrients.