Italian vegetable soups are a heartwarming way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh produce combined with rustic herbs and seasonings. Whether you’re craving a light starter or a comforting main dish, these soups bring a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.
Bursting with wholesome vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, and beans, Italian veg soups are not only nourishing but also incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed year-round, perfect for cozy winter nights or refreshing summer lunches.
In this post, we’ll explore several delicious Italian veg soup recipes that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. From classic Minestrone to a lighter Tuscan white bean soup, these recipes showcase the best of Italian cooking.
Plus, they are excellent for anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals without sacrificing taste. Let’s dive into these soul-satisfying bowls of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Italian veg soups are a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels. They’re incredibly flexible, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, which means minimal waste and maximum flavor.
These soups are naturally healthy, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They also make great meal prep options since they taste even better the next day.
Plus, with the addition of herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme, each spoonful delivers an authentic taste of Italy that comforts and delights.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, these soups will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni), optional
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Colander (for rinsing beans and draining pasta)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and green beans. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly brown.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- If using pasta, add it now. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Stir in the drained cannellini beans and cook for 5 more minutes to heat through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Enjoy your delicious bowl of Italian veg soup!
Tips & Variations
To make your soup heartier, try adding diced potatoes or sweet corn.
For a vegan option, ensure your vegetable broth is free of animal products.
Swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or kidney beans for a different texture and flavor.
Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter taste, adding them towards the end of cooking.
Leftover soup freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 7 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This Italian veg soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette complements the warm flavors of the soup beautifully.
For a more filling meal, serve alongside a light pasta dish or a simple risotto. You can also top the soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or vegan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Classic Minestrone Soup
A traditional Italian favorite, Minestrone is a chunky vegetable soup packed with beans, pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for meal prepping as the flavors meld over time, becoming richer and more robust.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until soft.
- Add potatoes, green beans, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add pasta and kidney beans. Simmer until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
This Tuscan-inspired soup is hearty and earthy, featuring cannellini beans and tender kale simmered in a garlicky broth. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy nutrient-dense greens with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained
- 4 cups chopped kale, tough stems removed
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add vegetable broth and rosemary. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in cannellini beans and kale. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until kale is tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or polenta.
Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup
A rich, velvety soup that highlights the sweetness of roasted tomatoes combined with fresh basil. This Italian classic is perfect when you want a smooth and comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes until tomatoes are soft and caramelized.
- Remove garlic skins and transfer vegetables to a blender.
- Add vegetable broth and basil. Blend until smooth.
- Pour soup into a pot and heat gently. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil garnish.
Conclusion
Italian vegetable soups are a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create unforgettable flavors. Whether you prefer the chunky heartiness of Minestrone, the leafy richness of Tuscan kale soup, or the smooth comfort of roasted tomato basil, these recipes will satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
These soups are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you need a cozy, healthy meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite vegetables and herbs — the beauty of Italian cooking lies in its adaptability and love for seasonal produce.
For more delicious plant-based recipes, check out our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating, explore hearty options at Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas, or treat yourself to a sweet finish with our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
📖 Recipe Card: Italian Veg Soup
Description: A hearty and flavorful Italian vegetable soup packed with fresh veggies and herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or comforting dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add carrots and celery; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in zucchini, green beans, and diced tomatoes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add oregano and basil.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 22 g
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