Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even asparagus save prep time and work just as well. Sauté from frozen, or add directly to the soup during simmering—they’ll cook through and taste great.

How can I make this soup more filling?

Try stirring in a cup of cooked pasta or rice right before serving, or double up the beans. Sliced cooked sausage or shredded chicken work, too, if you want extra heartiness.

What if I don’t like fennel?

No problem—simply swap out the fennel for celery, extra carrots, or even leeks. The fennel adds a pleasant subtle sweetness, but the soup is delicious with other aromatic veggies.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Definitely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just cool and store it in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.

Simple Vegetable Soup Recipe

Name: Simple Vegetable Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 large carrots, halved and sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups shredded cabbage; 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1 large bulb fennel, trimmed, cored, and diced; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces; 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano leaves (or a combination); Spicy pepper relish or hot sauce; Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional); Orange zest

Description

This Simple Vegetable Soup is a hearty, wholesome meal packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and beans, simmered in flavorful broth. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy lunch or nutritious dinner. Customize the spice and toppings for a soup that suits any taste!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Soup Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 large carrots, halved and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups shredded cabbage
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 large bulb fennel, trimmed, cored, and diced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano leaves (or a combination)

To Serve (Optional)

Spicy pepper relish or hot sauce
Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Orange zest

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Instructions

Prepare your pot and aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté initial vegetables: Add the onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
Add and sauté remaining vegetables: Incorporate the shredded cabbage, both bell peppers, and diced fennel. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 additional minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Add beans, asparagus, and broth: Stir in the cannellini beans and asparagus, then pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmer the soup: Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld together. Stir in the fresh thyme or oregano at the end.
Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Add a dollop of spicy pepper relish or a few drops of hot sauce to any portion where extra heat is desired. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese and a bit of orange zest if desired before serving.

Notes

This soup is very versatile—you can substitute or add any seasonal vegetables on hand.
For a vegan version, omit Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese.
If you prefer, use all vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian dish.
The flavors improve as the soup sits, making it a great meal prep option.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
Calories: 160
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.8g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg