Old Fashioned Vegetable Soup Recipes for Cozy Meals

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of old fashioned vegetable soup. This classic dish, rich with simple, hearty ingredients, has been a staple in kitchens around the world for generations.

Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply crave a wholesome, nourishing meal, vegetable soup offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that satisfy both body and soul.

Old fashioned vegetable soup isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s a celebration of the garden’s bounty. Using fresh, seasonal produce and slow-simmered broth, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables, enhanced by herbs and spices that evoke nostalgia and warmth.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy families or anyone wanting to eat healthily without fuss.

In this detailed recipe, I’ll guide you through making a traditional vegetable soup from scratch, along with tips and variations to customize it your way. If you love hearty, wholesome meals like this, be sure to explore more ideas in our Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings and 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious.

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This old fashioned vegetable soup recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious, comforting meal with minimal effort. It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants thanks to the variety of fresh vegetables included.

The slow simmering process melds the flavors beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying broth without the need for heavy cream or artificial additives.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just aiming to eat more plants, you can easily swap or add ingredients to suit your taste and pantry availability.

It’s budget-friendly, uses simple ingredients, and yields plenty of leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Finally, this soup is a wonderful way to introduce more vegetables into your diet in a delicious way — perfect for picky eaters or those new to plant-based cooking. It’s a timeless classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Soup bowls for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
4. Add the diced potatoes, zucchini, and green beans to the pot, stirring well to combine the vegetables.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to mix all ingredients evenly.
6. Add the dried thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
7. Simmer the soup for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
8. About 5 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas (if using) to the pot and stir until heated through.
9. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For a heartier soup, add cooked beans or lentils in during the last 15 minutes of cooking. You can also swap vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.”

If you want to deepen the flavor, try sautéing the vegetables in a bit of vegan butter or adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari for umami richness. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

To keep the soup lighter, omit the potatoes or substitute with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. You can also blend part of the soup for a creamier texture without any cream, or serve it chunky as is.

Leftovers reheat beautifully and actually taste better the next day, making this a great make-ahead meal. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months for easy future meals.

Nutrition Facts

*Sodium content can be reduced by using low-sodium broth and limiting added salt.

Serving Suggestions

This old fashioned vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole grain bread or a warm, buttered roll for dipping. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or a simple grain like quinoa or brown rice.

If you want to add a touch of indulgence without dairy, try drizzling a little Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce on top or sprinkle with toasted nuts and seeds for added texture.

For a protein boost, consider serving the soup with a side of Vegetarian Burger Recipe Lentils That Everyone Will Love, or stir in some cooked chickpeas or lentils directly into the soup.

Conclusion

Old fashioned vegetable soup is a timeless recipe that brings warmth, nutrition, and comfort all in one bowl. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and flexible preparation, it’s a perfect dish for any season and skill level.

Whether you want a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or a make-ahead meal for busy days, this soup fits the bill beautifully.

By using fresh vegetables and herbs, you get a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s easy on the budget and kind to your body. Plus, its adaptability means you can always tweak it to your liking or based on what’s available in your pantry.

I hope this recipe inspires you to enjoy more home-cooked, nourishing meals and explore the wonderful world of vegetable soups.

For more delicious and healthy plant-based recipes, check out our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals. Happy cooking!

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