Cilantro Soup Recipe Vegetarian: Fresh and Flavorful Ideas

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you love fresh, vibrant flavors and are looking for a comforting yet light soup, this vegetarian cilantro soup recipe is a must-try. Cilantro, with its bright and slightly citrusy notes, adds a unique and refreshing twist to the classic soup base.

Perfect for any season, this soup is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a cilantro enthusiast or a curious beginner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

This cilantro soup is creamy without the need for dairy, using plant-based alternatives and fresh vegetables to create a smooth, satisfying texture. It’s ideal for a light lunch or as a starter to a more elaborate meal.

Plus, it’s gluten-free, vegan, and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cilantro soup brings together the fresh, herbaceous flavor of cilantro with the natural sweetness of carrots and the earthiness of potatoes. It’s a healthful, vibrant, and warming dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
  • Vegetarian and vegan-friendly: Made with simple, plant-based ingredients.
  • Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
  • Versatile: Easily customized with your favorite spices and garnishes.
  • Great for meal prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 large bunch of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (about 2 cups packed)
  • 1 cup coconut milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds, avocado slices, or a dollop of vegan sour cream

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: In a large soup pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and potatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Add cilantro: Stir in the chopped cilantro, reserving a small handful for garnish if desired. Simmer for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until silky.
  6. Add coconut milk and lime juice: Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender). Stir in the coconut milk and lime juice. Heat through but do not boil.
  7. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to your preference. Adjust lime juice or cilantro if you want bolder flavors.
  8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved cilantro, toasted pumpkin seeds, or avocado slices for extra texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions.

If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half the soup and stir it back in with the unblended portion for a hearty texture.

You can also swap coconut milk with almond milk or cashew cream for a different creaminess. For extra protein, consider stirring in some cooked chickpeas or white beans before serving.

Experiment with garnishes like a swirl of vegan yogurt, fresh diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 bowl)
Calories 180
Protein 4g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 25g
Fiber 5g
Sodium 350mg
Vitamin A 120% DV
Vitamin C 40% DV

Serving Suggestions

This cilantro soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside quinoa or brown rice.

Try topping it with crunchy roasted chickpeas or toasted nuts to add a satisfying crunch. If you like, a little sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can bring out the flavors even more.

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or explore creative plant-based dishes like our Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan.

Conclusion

This vegetarian cilantro soup is a perfect blend of fresh herbs, hearty vegetables, and creamy texture, making it a wholesome and delicious meal for any day. It’s a versatile recipe that you can tweak to suit your taste buds, whether you prefer it mild or with a bit of heat.

Not only is this soup nutritious and satisfying, but it also celebrates the vibrant flavor of cilantro in a way that’s accessible to everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a cozy dinner starter, this cilantro soup will warm your soul and brighten your table.

Give it a try and enjoy the burst of fresh flavors!

For more inspiring recipes that bring fresh ingredients to life, don’t miss our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe and the indulgently creamy Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

📖 Recipe Card: Cilantro Soup Recipe Vegetarian

Description: A fresh and flavorful vegetarian cilantro soup that's light and easy to make. Perfect as a starter or a light meal.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup spinach leaves
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
  3. Add diced potatoes and cumin; cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  6. Add cilantro and spinach; cook for 2 minutes.
  7. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
  8. Stir in coconut milk if using, and lime juice.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 22 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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