There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of pasta soup, especially when it’s packed with vibrant vegetables and wholesome ingredients. For vegetarians and vegans alike, pasta soup recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful.
Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, vegetarian pasta soups bring together the best of both worlds: the soothing broth and the satisfying bite of pasta, all without any meat or animal products.
In this blog post, we’ll explore several delicious vegetarian pasta soup recipes that are easy to make, versatile, and sure to become staples in your kitchen. From classic Italian-inspired minestrone to creamy tomato basil soups with pasta, these recipes highlight the magic of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked noodles.
Plus, they’re ideal for meal prep, cozy nights in, or impressing guests with a wholesome homemade dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegetarian pasta soups are incredibly satisfying and adaptable. They combine the best textures and flavors — tender pasta, hearty vegetables, and rich broth — all in one bowl.
These recipes are perfect for anyone looking to:
- Eat healthily with a plant-based focus rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Save time with simple steps and ingredients that might already be in your pantry.
- Enjoy comfort food that’s warm and filling without being heavy or greasy.
- Customize easily by swapping vegetables, pasta shapes, or spices to suit your taste.
Plus, these soups freeze beautifully, making them ideal for batch cooking and quick reheats on busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 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
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
- Optional: 1 cup cooked beans (cannellini or chickpeas) for added protein
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Colander or strainer (optional, for rinsing pasta)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the zucchini and green beans, cooking for 3-4 more minutes to slightly tenderize the veggies.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Once the vegetables are tender, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If using cooked beans, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through.
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the pot from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
Tips & Variations
“To keep your pasta from getting mushy, add it towards the end of cooking and eat the soup the same day or refrigerate immediately.”
- Swap pasta shapes: Use orzo, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti for a different texture.
- Add creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan cream cheese to enrich the broth.
- Boost protein: Include beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a more filling meal.
- Season variation: Experiment with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Greens upgrade: Toss in spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 bowl) |
---|---|
Calories | 220-250 kcal |
Protein | 7-9 grams |
Carbohydrates | 40 grams |
Fiber | 6 grams |
Fat | 5 grams (mostly from olive oil) |
Sodium | 600 mg (depends on broth used) |
Vitamins & Minerals | Rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Iron |
Serving Suggestions
This pasta soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A crisp green salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables complements the meal beautifully, adding extra freshness and texture.
For a more indulgent twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or vegan cheese over the top before serving. Enjoy your soup with a light glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.
If you love this recipe, you might also want to explore these delicious vegetarian dishes on our blog:
- Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals
- Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
- Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating
Delicious Vegetarian Pasta Soup Recipes to Try
Classic Minestrone Soup with Pasta
A timeless Italian favorite, minestrone is a chunky vegetable soup loaded with beans, tomatoes, and pasta. It’s perfect for using whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an ideal pantry-friendly option.
- Ingredients: Onion, celery, carrots, zucchini, kidney beans, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, ditalini pasta, Italian herbs.
- Tip: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for a tangy depth.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Soup
For those who love a richer soup, this recipe combines fresh tomatoes and basil with a creamy coconut milk base, making it dairy-free but luxuriously smooth and flavorful.
- Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes or canned, garlic, onion, coconut milk, vegetable broth, small pasta shells, fresh basil.
- Tip: Toast the garlic before adding for a nuttier aroma.
Spicy Mexican-Inspired Pasta Soup
This vibrant soup features corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and a kick of chili powder with tender pasta for a filling, zesty meal.
- Ingredients: Onion, garlic, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, elbow macaroni, cilantro.
- Tip: Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten flavors.
Autumn Harvest Pasta Soup
Celebrate seasonal veggies like butternut squash, kale, and sweet potatoes in a savory broth with tiny pasta shapes for a cozy fall meal.
- Ingredients: Butternut squash, sweet potatoes, kale, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, acini di pepe pasta, sage, and thyme.
- Tip: Roast the squash and potatoes first for a deeper flavor.
Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Soup
This heartwarming soup is filled with chickpeas, spinach, tomatoes, and pasta, seasoned with lemon and oregano for a bright, herbaceous finish.
- Ingredients: Chickpeas, spinach, canned tomatoes, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, small pasta, vegetable broth.
- Tip: Garnish with crumbled feta or a vegan alternative for added richness.
Conclusion
Vegetarian pasta soup recipes are a versatile and nutritious solution for anyone craving a warm, hearty meal without meat. Whether you prefer a light broth with fresh vegetables or a creamy, comforting bowl, pasta soups can be customized endlessly to suit your palate and dietary needs.
These dishes not only nourish your body but also provide a sense of comfort and satisfaction that’s perfect for any season.
They’re easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and ideal for batch cooking, making them a smart choice for busy lifestyles. Plus, exploring variations from Italian classics to spicy Mexican or Mediterranean flavors keeps mealtime exciting and fresh.
For more inspiring vegetarian recipes, don’t miss out on our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals, Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners, and Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
Enjoy cooking and savor every spoonful of your delicious vegetarian pasta soup!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Pasta Soup
Description: A hearty and comforting vegetarian pasta soup packed with fresh vegetables and tender pasta. Perfect for a quick, nutritious meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
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 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in carrots, celery, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 28 g
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