Savory Vegetable Soup with Fresh Thyme is a light, nourishing, and flavorful soup that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. This soup is hearty yet healthy, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a starter. Fresh thyme infuses the broth with a subtle earthy aroma that elevates the taste of every vegetable in the pot.

This soup is versatile, wholesome, and easy to make. It is ideal for anyone looking for a satisfying plant-based meal, but it also pairs well with protein additions for extra heartiness. The balance of flavors, from the sweetness of carrots to the freshness of thyme, makes this soup both comforting and refreshing.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is simple, clean, and flavorful. The fresh vegetables provide a natural sweetness, while the thyme adds a fragrant herbal note that makes the soup feel homemade and comforting.

It is easy to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for meal prep since it stores well without losing its flavor.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This soup is a must-try because it turns everyday vegetables into a delicious, aromatic, and satisfying meal. It is vegan-friendly, full of vitamins and fiber, and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

The use of fresh thyme makes it special and elevates the flavors, making it a soup you will want to return to again and again.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: ~180 kcal
Course: Main Course / Soup
Cuisine: International / Healthy

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 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: 1 cup cooked beans (cannellini, kidney, or chickpeas)

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes. Add salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer
Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.

Step 5: Optional Beans
If using cooked beans, add them in the last 5 minutes of simmering to heat through.

Step 6: Serve
Remove bay leaf, ladle soup into bowls, and garnish with extra fresh thyme if desired. Serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic 3-4 minutes.
2. Add carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Cook 5-6 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Add cooked beans if using and heat through.
6. Remove bay leaf, garnish with thyme, and serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve Savory Vegetable Soup with Fresh Thyme hot in bowls, paired with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad. It works well as a light main dish or a starter.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh thyme for the best flavor; dried thyme works in a pinch.
• Adjust seasoning to taste and add more herbs if desired.
• Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
• Add a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
• For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan if not vegan.

Variations

• Add potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier soup.
• Include kale, spinach, or Swiss chard for additional greens.
• Use barley, quinoa, or rice for a grain-based version.
• Add a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy twist.
• Include mushrooms or corn for extra texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
• Add delicate greens like spinach or zucchini after reheating if frozen.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or ladle for stirring and serving

FAQ

Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
A: Yes, use about half the amount of dried thyme as fresh.

Q: Is this soup vegan?
A: Yes, it uses only vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients.

Q: Can I add pasta or grains?
A: Yes, add cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for a more filling soup.

Q: How do I keep vegetables from getting mushy?
A: Add delicate vegetables like zucchini or beans towards the end of cooking to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Savory Vegetable Soup with Fresh Thyme is a healthy, flavorful, and versatile soup that showcases the natural sweetness of vegetables and the aromatic essence of thyme. Easy to prepare, vegan-friendly, and customizable, it is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. This soup is comforting, nutritious, and a must-try for anyone seeking a wholesome homemade dish that warms both body and soul.