There’s something special about Grandma’s wholesome vegetable soup with Parmesan croutons—it’s warm, comforting, and packed with fresh flavors. This hearty soup is filled with colorful vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a rich vegetable broth, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
The best part? Crunchy homemade Parmesan croutons! These golden, cheesy bites add the perfect finishing touch, making every spoonful irresistible. Whether you need a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a light, healthy dish for lunch, this soup is a must-try classic.
Let’s dive into this timeless vegetable soup recipe and bring a taste of Grandma’s kitchen to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Soup
- Wholesome and Nutritious – Packed with fresh vegetables, fiber, and vitamins.
- Light Yet Satisfying – A perfect balance of comfort and health.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and one-pot cooking.
- Crispy Parmesan Croutons – The perfect crunchy topping.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats well for busy days.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Wholesome Vegetable Soup
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful and nourishing soup:
For the Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Olive oil | As needed |
| Celery, chopped | 3 sticks |
| Carrot, chopped | 1 |
| Sweet red pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Sweet orange pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Courgette (zucchini), chopped | 1 |
| Potatoes, chopped | 2 |
| Chili pepper, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, finely chopped | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Thyme | To taste |
| Vegetable broth | 1 liter |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | As needed |
For the Parmesan Croutons
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bread, cubed | 3 slices |
| Olive oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste |
| Dried garlic | To taste |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | As needed |
| Thyme | To taste |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Grandma’s Vegetable Soup
1. Prepare the Soup
Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Cook the Vegetables
- Stir in the chopped celery, carrot, red pepper, orange pepper, courgette, potatoes, and chili pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add Garlic and Seasonings
- Stir in the finely chopped garlic, salt, black pepper, and thyme.
- Cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Peas
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
Final Touches
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Stir in the freshly chopped parsley before serving.
3. Make the Parmesan Croutons
Prepare the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the cubed bread with olive oil, salt, dried garlic, grated Parmesan, and thyme until evenly coated.
Bake Until Crispy
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with a handful of crispy Parmesan croutons.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy this warm and comforting vegetable soup with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad!
Health Benefits of Vegetable Soup
1. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
- Carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes provide vitamins A, C, and potassium for overall health.
2. High in Fiber for Digestion
- Celery, courgette, and peas are rich in fiber, which supports gut health.
3. Heart-Healthy Ingredients
- Olive oil, garlic, and thyme help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
4. Low in Calories, High in Nutrients
- This soup is light yet filling, making it great for weight management.
Expert Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup
1. Use Fresh, Seasonal Vegetables
- Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
2. Let the Soup Simmer for More Flavor
- Allowing the soup to simmer for longer deepens the taste.
3. Customize with Your Favorite Herbs
- Try basil, oregano, or rosemary for a unique twist.
4. Store for Later
- This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
5. Add More Protein
- Mix in chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Delicious Variations of Vegetable Soup
1. Spicy Mediterranean Soup 🌶️
- Add chopped olives and feta cheese for a Greek-style soup.
2. Creamy Vegetable Soup 🥛
- Stir in coconut milk or cream for extra richness.
3. Hearty Bean and Vegetable Soup 🥣
- Add kidney beans or chickpeas for a protein boost.
4. Low-Carb Vegetable Soup 🥬
- Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.
5. Asian-Inspired Broth 🍜
- Add ginger, soy sauce, and tofu for an Asian twist.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing for Later
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
3. Best Ways to Reheat
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use vegetable stock cubes instead of broth?
Yes! Dissolve stock cubes in hot water for a quick broth substitute.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Skip the Parmesan croutons or use vegan cheese instead.
4. How can I make it more filling?
Add chickpeas, lentils, or pasta for extra heartiness.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Grandma’s wholesome vegetable soup with Parmesan croutons is a classic, comforting dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy evening, it’s a must-try recipe.
