There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially when it’s packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and absolutely no meat. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to enjoy a lighter, nutrient-rich meal, this no meat vegetable soup recipe is a perfect choice.
It’s incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavors that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up any veggies you have on hand, making it both economical and eco-friendly.
This recipe brings together a medley of colorful vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a hearty, delicious soup that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or looking for a refreshing lunch option, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ready to dive into the details? Let’s explore why this recipe stands out, what you’ll need, and how to make it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This no meat vegetable soup is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s nutrient-dense and packed full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters.
The variety of vegetables ensures a range of flavors and textures that keep every spoonful interesting.
Secondly, it’s easy to customize. You can swap in your favorite vegetables or seasonal produce without compromising the taste.
Plus, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to multiple dietary preferences.
Lastly, it’s a one-pot wonder — meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a wholesome meal without fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked beans or lentils (optional for added protein)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle for serving
- Optional: Immersion blender (if you prefer a creamier texture)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the carrots and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and green beans. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes along with their juice. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Season with dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
- If using kale or spinach, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to wilt it perfectly.
- For added protein, add cooked beans or lentils in the last few minutes to warm through.
- Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips & Variations
“One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility. Feel free to swap vegetables based on the season or your pantry!”
- Make it creamy: Use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup for a silky texture without adding dairy.
- Boost flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste during simmering for deeper umami notes.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite chili powder. For a great homemade option, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
- Grain bowl: Serve this soup over cooked quinoa, rice, or ancient grains for a more filling meal. Discover more about ancient grains with our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
- Batch cook: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge up to 4 days or freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1.5 cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 3.5 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg (varies based on broth) |
| Vitamin A | 85% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This hearty no meat vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or a warm, flaky roll. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Looking for a complete meal? Add a simple grain bowl by spooning the soup over quinoa or brown rice.
You can also pair this soup with some roasted root vegetables or a fresh fruit platter for dessert.
For more delicious vegetarian meal ideas, check out these recipes: A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.
Conclusion
This no meat vegetable soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that fits perfectly into any healthy eating routine. Its fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and rich flavors make it a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Whether you’re embracing a plant-based lifestyle or just want to enjoy a meatless meal, this soup offers comfort in every spoonful.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make this soup uniquely yours. With its versatility, it’s easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand or whatever your taste buds crave.
For more inspiration on vegetarian cooking, explore our collection of recipes and find your next favorite meal.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the warmth and goodness of this wholesome no meat vegetable soup!
📖 Recipe Card: No Meat Vegetable Soup
Description: A hearty and healthy vegetable soup packed with fresh veggies and herbs. Perfect for a light meal or starter.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 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 and green beans; cook for 3 minutes.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Add thyme, basil, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 18 g
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