There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially when it’s made from scratch with fresh ingredients and no added broth. This basic vegetable soup no broth recipe is perfect for those who want a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal without relying on store-bought broth or bouillon cubes.
It’s packed with vibrant vegetables, herbs, and spices that come together to create a deliciously hearty soup that will warm you up on any day. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand.
Not only is this soup budget-friendly, but it’s also a fantastic way to boost your daily vegetable intake. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Dive into this delightful recipe and discover how simple it is to make a nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetable soup recipe stands out because it does not rely on broth, which means it’s lighter and allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through. Instead of broth, we use the water released from the vegetables themselves, enhanced with aromatic herbs and spices to build depth and flavor.
It’s incredibly versatile — you can swap in whatever seasonal vegetables you have, making it a perfect recipe for any time of the year. The soup is also a great base to experiment with adding grains or legumes if you want a heartier meal.
Most importantly, it’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 5 cups water (or enough to cover the vegetables)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Soup bowls for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in your soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the carrots and celery to the pot. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes to begin softening the vegetables.
- Pour in the water so it just covers the vegetables. Add the dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes. This allows the vegetables to release their flavors into the water.
- Add the zucchini, green beans, and chopped tomato. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Tips & Variations
“To deepen the flavor without broth, try roasting your vegetables beforehand for a caramelized taste.”
Feel free to add other veggies such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, or leafy greens like spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. For extra protein, toss in cooked beans or lentils.
If you want a thicker soup, blend half of it with an immersion blender or in a regular blender and then stir it back in. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika to give the soup a bright or smoky twist.
For a spicy kick, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to add some heat.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Vitamin A | 110% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable soup is delicious served on its own or paired with a warm slice of crusty bread for dipping. For a more filling meal, add cooked quinoa or brown rice on the side.
Try pairing it with one of our other wholesome recipes such as A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore more hearty options like 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious.
For a light, fresh contrast, a simple green salad or steamed greens work wonderfully alongside this soup.
Conclusion
Making a comforting bowl of vegetable soup without broth is easier than you might think. This recipe showcases how fresh vegetables, combined with simple herbs and spices, can create a flavorful and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any day.
It’s an excellent option for those who want to avoid processed ingredients or reduce sodium intake without sacrificing taste.
With its adaptability and ease, this soup can become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and enjoy a warm, wholesome dish that satisfies your hunger and your health goals.
Don’t forget to explore our other vegetarian recipes to keep your meals exciting and delicious!
📖 Recipe Card: Basic Vegetable Soup No Broth Recipe
Description: A simple and healthy vegetable soup made without broth, relying on fresh vegetables and seasonings for flavor. Perfect for a light meal or starter.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add carrots, celery, potato, and green beans; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and water.
- Add zucchini and dried thyme; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 25 g
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