Italian vegetable soup

This Italian vegetable soup is a hearty blend of carrots, cauliflower, zucchini, and kidney beans simmered with aromatic herbs for a comforting meal. Perfect for enjoying on a chilly day, it’s both nutritious and easy to prepare.

14 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

5 carrots
1 cauliflower
1 cup onion
6.59 zucchini
3 tomatoes
3 cups canned tomatoes
1.50 cups kidney beans
Italian vegetable soup

Delight in the flavors of Italy with this hearty and healthy Italian vegetable soup. Packed with a variety of vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, zucchini, and kidney beans, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Vegetables:
- Peel and slice the carrots.
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- Dice the onion.
- Chop the zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the fresh tomatoes.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables:
- Add the sliced carrots, cauliflower florets, chopped zucchini, and diced fresh tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth (or water). Stir the mixture well.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add Beans:
- After the vegetables are tender, stir in the kidney beans. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to warm the beans through.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
8. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Italian vegetable soup, a nourishing bowl filled with the goodness of fresh vegetables and savory beans. Whether served as a main dish or a hearty starter, this soup is sure to bring a touch of Italian charm to your dining table.

Italian vegetable soup FAQ:

What is the simmering time for the soup?

The soup should simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender. After adding the kidney beans, continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat them through.

Can I substitute kidney beans with another type of bean?

Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with other beans like cannellini, black beans, or chickpeas, depending on your preference.

How should I store leftover Italian vegetable soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months.

What size pot do I need for this recipe?

Use a large pot or Dutch oven to accommodate all the vegetables and liquids without overflow during cooking.

How can I tell when the vegetables are done cooking?

The vegetables are done when they are tender but still hold some shape. You can test their doneness by piercing them with a fork.

Tips:

- For added depth of flavor, sauté the onions first in a bit of olive oil until they are soft and translucent.

- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for a more vibrant taste, but if they are not in season, canned tomatoes will work just as well.

- For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup and then mixing it back into the pot.

- Season the soup with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to enhance the flavor.

- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less broth or water to suit your preference.

- Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 11g
Fat 1.27g

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