Vegetable Soup | Hearty & Healthy Winter Recipe

Vegetable Soup is the ultimate hearty dish for cold winter nights. This nourishing recipe combines fresh vegetables with protein-rich lentils, creating a satisfying bowl that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Perfect for those looking for easy soup recipes that fit into vegetarian soup recipes, this dish brings both comfort and nutrition to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy vegetable lentil soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
2. Add lentils and seasoning – Stir in lentils, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Pour in liquids – Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer until tender – Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 30–35 minutes, until lentils are tender and vegetables are cooked through.
5. Adjust flavor – Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve and garnish – Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Health Benefits of Vegetable Lentil Soup

This vegetable soup is more than just comfort food—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition:

• Protein-Rich – Lentils add plant-based protein, making it filling and satisfying without meat.
• Full of Fiber – Vegetables and lentils together create a fiber-rich dish that supports digestion and helps you stay full longer.
• Packed with Vitamins – Carrots, celery, and zucchini bring vitamin A, C, and other essential nutrients.
• Low in Fat – This recipe uses minimal oil, keeping it light while still flavorful.

Why This Soup Belongs in Your Winter Menu

Winter soup recipes often rely on creamy bases or heavy stews, but this vegetable lentil soup provides warmth and nutrition without being overly rich. It’s a versatile recipe that works well for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as part of your collection of fall soups and stews.

This soup is also customizable—add your favorite vegetables, swap lentils for beans, or make it creamy with a splash of coconut milk. Whether you prefer a chunky texture or a blended smooth soup, this recipe adapts to your taste.

Variations and Soup Ideas

• Creamy Vegetable Soup – Blend half the soup with an immersion blender, then stir it back in for a creamy consistency.
• Spicy Kick – Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Protein Boost – Toss in chickpeas or quinoa for even more heartiness.
• Herbal Freshness – Add a squeeze of lemon juice and extra fresh herbs at the end to brighten flavors.

Conclusion

Vegetable Soup with lentils is the perfect recipe for cozy nights, healthy eating, and simple cooking. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and easy to customize, making it one of the best healthy vegetable soup ideas to keep in your rotation. Whether you’re craving a warming winter soup or a light yet filling dinner, this recipe will hit the spot.

Save this recipe today so you’ll always have a wholesome, hearty option ready for those cold-weather cravings.