Army Vegetable Soup Recipe for Hearty, Healthy Meals

Army vegetable soup is a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly versatile dish that has stood the test of time. Originally created to fuel soldiers with a balanced meal packed with vegetables and protein, this soup has now become a beloved comfort food for many.

It’s a perfect blend of fresh veggies, beans, and savory broth that warms you up on chilly days and fills you with wholesome energy. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal or simply want to enjoy a bowl of nourishing goodness, this recipe will not disappoint.

This soup is not only easy to make but also adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a fantastic choice for reducing food waste. It’s vegan-friendly, packed with fiber and protein, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

Get ready to discover why army vegetable soup deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Army vegetable soup is a one-pot wonder that’s as filling as it is flavorful. The mix of fresh vegetables and beans ensures you get a balanced meal with plenty of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein.

If you’re a fan of soups that can double as meal prep, this recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can swap out veggies based on the season or your pantry, and it still tastes amazing.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more vegetables into your diet without any fuss.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for one, this army vegetable soup recipe is perfect for all occasions — from casual weeknights to meal prepping for busy weeks. It’s also an excellent recipe to pair with other wholesome meals like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore spice blends from the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a flavor boost.

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 cubed
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup cooked navy beans or cannellini beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Can opener (if using canned beans and tomatoes)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add the green beans, cabbage, and canned diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir to combine all ingredients well.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
7. Add the cooked navy beans to the pot. Stir and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the beans through.
8. Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
9. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra hearty twist, add 1 cup of cooked barley or small pasta shapes in the last 10 minutes of cooking.”

Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on what you have — zucchini, bell peppers, or kale work beautifully. This is a great way to reduce food waste and add your personal touch.

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or beans with a spoon before serving.

For more plant-based soup inspiration, check out our Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Army vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty whole-grain bread or a side of garlic toast for a satisfying meal. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch.

For a protein boost, add a dollop of plain vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast on top. This soup also works great as a starter for heartier meals like the Cheeseless Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe That Tastes Amazing or a light lunch paired with a warm bowl of the 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious.

Conclusion

Army vegetable soup is a timeless classic that brings warmth, nourishment, and incredible flavor to your table. Its hearty combination of fresh vegetables and beans makes it a well-rounded and satisfying meal, perfect for all seasons.

The recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your taste and pantry, ensuring no two batches are ever exactly the same but always delicious.

Making this soup is a wonderful way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, army vegetable soup is straightforward, budget-friendly, and sure to become a family favorite.

For more inspiring recipes, don’t forget to explore our collection like the Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love or dive into wholesome grains with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

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