There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of homemade vegetable soup. It’s comforting, healing, and nourishing — the kind of meal that feels like a gentle hug for your body. This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your digestive system and boost your immunity. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something wholesome, this vegetable soup is perfect for any time of day — breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 leeks, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped cabbage (optional for extra fiber)
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for freshness)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, leeks, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
- Add the red pepper, zucchini, potatoes, and garlic. Stir and cook for another 3 minutes to release their aroma.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, then add salt, pepper, turmeric, thyme, and the bay leaf. Stir gently and bring the soup to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Add the cabbage and spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir and let them wilt.
- Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra brightness, squeeze in a bit of lemon juice before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or beans for extra protein.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill for a fragrant touch.
- Blend half of the soup for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for heartiness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer freshness.
Health Benefits
This vegetable soup supports digestion, cleanses the body, and strengthens your immune system. The combination of leeks, garlic, and turmeric helps reduce inflammation, while the variety of vegetables provides essential fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Soup Lovers’ Note
Enjoy this comforting soup whenever your body needs a reset. It’s simple, healing, and full of flavor — perfect for anyone who believes that good food is the best medicine.
Would you like me to make a creamy blended version of this same recipe next (like a detox-style smooth soup)?