Ham Vegetable Soup Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

There’s nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a warm bowl of ham vegetable soup. This hearty, flavorful soup combines tender chunks of smoky ham with a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Packed with vitamins, protein, and fiber, it’s a balanced meal in a bowl that appeals to all ages.

What makes this soup truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or leftovers in your fridge.

Plus, the rich broth infused with ham bones or ham pieces offers a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Read on to discover how to make this delicious ham vegetable soup from scratch, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas that will make it your new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ham vegetable soup recipe ticks all the boxes for a hearty, healthy, and delicious meal. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.

The combination of vegetables ensures you get a vibrant mix of textures and nutrients in every spoonful.

Unlike many soups, this one is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just one pot and simple steps. It freezes well, making it perfect for batch cooking or busy weeknight dinners.

The smoky, savory ham broth enriches the vegetables, creating a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for any season.

With flexible ingredient options and a straightforward approach, this recipe is ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks looking to add comfort food to their rotation without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced (preferably smoked ham)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach for added greens

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Soup bowls for serving
• Optional: Blender or immersion blender (for a creamier version)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop all vegetables as described in the ingredients list. Set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ham: Stir in the diced ham and cook for 2 minutes to release its smoky flavor.
4. Add vegetables and broth: Add carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
5. Season the soup: Add dried thyme, parsley, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering the ham may already contribute saltiness.
6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
7. Add greens (optional): If using kale or spinach, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
8. Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
9. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Enjoy hot with your favorite bread or crackers.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, simmer the ham bone (if available) with the broth before adding vegetables. Remove the bone before serving.

Feel free to swap vegetables based on what’s in season or your preferences. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers make excellent additions or substitutions.

If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup before serving.

For a lower sodium option, use homemade or low-sodium broth and rinse the ham lightly before adding it to the soup. Vegetarian friends might enjoy a version of this soup without ham by substituting smoked tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth.

For those interested, check out our 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious for a plant-based alternative packed with protein and fiber.

Nutrition Facts

*Sodium content can vary depending on the ham and broth used. Opt for low-sodium broth and lean ham to reduce salt intake.

Serving Suggestions

This ham vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or warm cornbread for dipping. A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the heartiness of the soup.

For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple roasted vegetable medley or a grilled cheese sandwich. For those seeking a lighter accompaniment, steamed green beans or a cucumber and tomato salad work beautifully.

Conclusion

Ham vegetable soup is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nourishment to the table. Its combination of smoky ham and fresh vegetables makes for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect any time of year.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is an easy, adaptable option that delivers big on taste with minimal fuss.

With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, it’s accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the ability to customize with your favorite veggies or leftovers means you can make it your own.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to add vibrant flavors to your cooking repertoire.

Give this ham vegetable soup a try, and enjoy the cozy, nourishing benefits of a homemade soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

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