Spring Vegetable Soup With Herbs

Name: Spring Vegetable Soup With Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen); 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of spring, and this Spring Vegetable Soup with Herbs truly captures the essence of the season. Every time I make it, I am reminded of the lush gardens bursting with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. The soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a light meal or a comforting starter. With each spoonful, I feel revitalized, and it’s a delightful way to embrace the changing seasons.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:43:21.643Z

When I first made this Spring Vegetable Soup, I was amazed at how all of the fresh herbs combined to create a medley of flavors that danced on my palate. I recommend using a mix of seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, and carrots for the best results. Each ingredient adds its own unique texture and taste, making every spoonful a delightful surprise.

One memorable experience was when I served this soup to friends during a spring gathering. They were thrilled by its freshness and vibrant color! To enhance the flavors, I always finish it off with a splash of lemon juice, which brightens everything up beautifully. It’s a simple trick that I can't recommend enough!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, seasonal ingredients that elevate every bite
Fragrant herbs that add depth and complexity
Light yet satisfying, perfect for any occasion

Selecting the Best Vegetables

When making this Spring Vegetable Soup, selecting the freshest, in-season vegetables elevates the overall flavor profile. Look for organic carrots that are firm and brightly colored. Zucchini should be glossy and free of blemishes. If you're fortunate enough to have access to a local farmer's market, explore the variety of heirloom vegetables available; they can add unexpected flavors and textures to your soup.

As for the asparagus, select spears that are vibrant green with tightly closed tips. If they are bendy or wilting, they’re past their prime. For the green peas, fresh peas have a sweetness that frozen peas can't quite replicate, but the latter works well in a pinch. If using frozen, there's no need to thaw them beforehand; simply toss them into the pot as directed.

Perfecting the Soup's Base

Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for building the foundational flavor of the soup. Make sure to keep an eye on them; you want them soft and fragrant but not browned—keep the heat at medium and stir occasionally. This process infuses the olive oil with aromatic oils, which will enhance the entire soup.

Once you've added the broth and herbs, bringing the mixture to a boil quickly activates the flavors of thyme and basil. After boiling, reducing the heat to a gentle simmer is important; this lets the vegetables cook evenly without becoming mushy. Aim for a simmer that maintains small bubbles breaking the surface—this will take about 15–20 minutes.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The final touch of lemon juice is essential for brightening the soup. This acidity balances the sweetness of the vegetables and creates a refreshing finish. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine during the sauté step—just let it reduce slightly before adding the broth to intensify the taste.

For those looking to vary this recipe, you might substitute other herbs like dill or cilantro for a different aromatic experience. Additionally, for a heartier meal, serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad featuring seasonal greens to round out the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Spring Vegetable Soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make a delightful Spring Vegetable Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced carrots and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the green peas and asparagus, cooking for an additional 15 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice for a zesty finish. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your vibrant spring dish!

Enjoy this soup warm for a comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess on top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Spring Vegetable Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. To store longer, you can freeze individual portions safely. Just ensure to leave a little space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

When reheating, do so gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, consider garnishing each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a touch of richness to the light broth. Pair the soup with a slice of artisan bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that feels refreshing and satisfying.

For a twist, try adding a dollop of pesto or avocado on top before serving. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce rich flavors that complement the freshness of the spring vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this soup. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they don't overcook.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it only uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ What herbs work best in this recipe?

Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can enhance the flavor of the soup. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!