Clear Vegan Soup Recipe For Light And Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 8, 2025

When it comes to light, nourishing meals, nothing beats a clear vegan soup. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a comforting yet uncomplicated dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs.

Whether you’re recovering from a busy week or simply in need of a healthy pick-me-up, this clear vegan soup is soothing and easy to digest. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic base for your favorite vegetables or additions.

The best part? It’s completely plant-based, free of additives, and ready to warm you up in under an hour.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a detailed recipe for a clear vegan soup that’s both vibrant and delicate. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to customize it to your taste and dietary needs.

If you love simple, wholesome cooking, this recipe is going to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This clear vegan soup is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s:

  • Light and refreshing, perfect for any season.
  • Easy to prepare with common pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
  • Highly adaptable — you can swap vegetables and herbs to suit your preferences.
  • Nutritious, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Completely vegan and gluten-free, ideal for diverse dietary needs.
  • Great for meal prep — store leftovers for a quick, healthy snack or light meal.

Ingredients

  • 8 cups water (or low-sodium vegetable broth for more flavor)
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 small parsnip, peeled and chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

  • Large stockpot or soup pot (at least 6-quart capacity)
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle for serving
  • Storage containers for leftovers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Rinse all fresh produce thoroughly. Peel and slice the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and optional parsnip into roughly equal sizes to ensure even cooking.
  2. Combine ingredients in pot: Add the water (or vegetable broth), carrots, celery, onion, garlic, parsnip, peppercorns, and bay leaf to your large stockpot.
  3. Bring to a boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer.
  4. Simmer gently: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour. This slow simmer extracts the flavors without clouding the broth. Avoid stirring vigorously to keep the broth clear.
  5. Add herbs and season: About 10 minutes before the end of cooking, add the chopped parsley and thyme. Season the broth with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Strain the broth: Carefully pour the soup through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot. Press gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible but avoid pushing through any sediment.
  7. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the clear broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your broth crystal clear, avoid stirring the soup while it simmers and skim any foam or impurities from the surface as they appear.”

Here are a few ways to customize your clear vegan soup:

  • Add umami depth: Include a piece of kombu (dried seaweed) during simmering for a subtle savory boost. Remove it before straining.
  • Use different vegetables: Leeks, fennel, or mushrooms can add wonderful flavor, but avoid starchy or dense vegetables like potatoes that cloud the broth.
  • Herb swaps: Try rosemary, sage, or basil depending on what you have on hand.
  • Serving variations: Add cooked noodles, tofu cubes, or steamed greens to turn this soup into a heartier meal.
  • Spice it up: A dash of chili flakes or a slice of fresh ginger can give a warming kick.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 40 kcal
Carbohydrates 9 g
Fiber 2 g
Protein 1 g
Fat 0.2 g
Vitamin A 2500 IU (50% DV)
Vitamin C 8 mg (13% DV)
Iron 0.7 mg (4% DV)
Sodium 300 mg (varies by added salt)

Serving Suggestions

This delicate clear vegan soup pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a light meal, enjoy it with a fresh green salad or crusty vegan bread.

It also works well as a starter to a larger dinner.

For added texture, consider serving with a side of steamed rice or quinoa, or add soft tofu cubes directly into the soup for protein. To explore other delicious vegan-friendly recipes that complement this soup, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or try a homemade treat like Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for dessert.

Conclusion

Clear vegan soup is a timeless dish that provides warmth, nourishment, and comfort without heaviness. Its clean, vibrant flavors come from simple, wholesome ingredients simmered to perfection.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based food lover, this recipe is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and what’s available in your kitchen. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a gentle yet flavorful meal.

We hope this recipe inspires you to enjoy the art of simple, mindful cooking. For more hearty and wholesome recipes, be sure to visit our blog and explore other favorites like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or the tangy and spicy Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

📖 Recipe Card: Clear Vegan Soup

Description: A light and refreshing clear vegan soup perfect for any season. Made with fresh vegetables and simple seasonings for a clean taste.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  3. Add carrots, celery, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaf and thyme.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Remove bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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