Italian Herb Vegetable Soup (Printable)

Vibrant Mediterranean-style soup with seasonal vegetables and classic Italian herbs. Ready in under an hour.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, sliced
05 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
09 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
10 - 4 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
12 - 2 cups baby spinach leaves

→ Herbs & Seasonings

13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
15 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
16 - 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
17 - 1 bay leaf
18 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Optional Additions

19 - 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
20 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
21 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (omit for vegan)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
02 - Stir in sliced carrots, celery, diced zucchini, diced red bell pepper, and green beans. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Add diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, and diced potato. Stir in oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
04 - Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
05 - If using cannellini beans, add to pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
06 - Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in spinach leaves and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted.
07 - Taste soup and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
08 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It turns humble pantry staples into a vibrant feast that feels like a warm hug.
  • The medley of colors in the bowl makes you feel like a master gardener.
02 -
  • Rinsing canned beans removes that metallic aftertaste that can ruin a delicate broth.
  • Removing the bay leaf is crucial because it stays tough and is not meant to be eaten.
03 -
  • Crush the dried rosemary between your palms to release the oils before adding it to the pot.
  • A tiny splash of balsamic vinegar right at the end adds a brightness that makes the flavors pop.
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