Name: Hearty Vegetable Soup with Roots and Greens Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter; 2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly; 3 carrots, peeled and diced small; 3 parsnips, peeled and diced small; 3 celery ribs, diced small; 2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small; 1 cup peas; 1 cup kale, chopped; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Salt (to taste); Black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press; 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained, seeded and finely diced; 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth; Small squeeze of lemon

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this Hearty Vegetable Soup with Roots and Greens Recipe. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a big hug in a bowl, brimming with tender root vegetables and fresh greens that meld together beautifully in a savory broth. Each spoonful is vibrant, earthy, and bright with just the right amount of seasoning, making it perfect for any day you want something both wholesome and delicious.

A white bowl filled with colorful vegetable soup sits on a white marbled surface. The soup shows many layers of ingredients: bright orange carrot cubes, yellow corn kernels, green peas, celery pieces, dark green kale leaves, and diced light yellow potatoes, all floating in a clear broth. The soup is topped with a sprinkle of fresh green herbs. The bowl rests on white parchment paper on a white plate, and next to it is a piece of torn brown bread. A white cup of the same soup is partially visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this recipe. Each one contributes a unique flavor, texture, or color that makes this soup so memorable and satisfying. From the earthiness of the root vegetables to the delicate bite of kale, every component shines through.

3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.
2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter: Brings a subtle, creamy depth and enhances the overall aroma.
2 leeks (white part only), quartered and sliced thinly: Provides a mild oniony sweetness that mellows as it cooks.
3 carrots, peeled and diced small: Contributes a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
3 parsnips, peeled and diced small: Offers a slightly nutty, earthy flavor that complements the carrots perfectly.
3 celery ribs, diced small: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and subtle herbal notes.
2 small red potatoes, peeled and diced small: Creates body and creaminess once cooked and softened.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing the natural flavors.
Black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and spice kick.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: Boosts herbal brightness throughout the soup.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an aromatic blend of Mediterranean herbs for complexity.
4 cloves garlic, pressed: Infuses the broth with a warm, savory punch.
1 (14.5 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained, seeded, and finely diced: Adds acidity, sweetness, and a touch of tanginess.
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
1 cup peas: Introduces a pop of green freshness and slight sweetness.
1 cup kale, chopped: Provides hearty texture and vibrant color, along with a boost of nutrients.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Brightens up the finish with fresh herbal notes.
Small squeeze of lemon: A final touch that lifts and balances the entire dish.

How to Make Hearty Vegetable Soup with Roots and Greens Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, get everything chopped and ready. This mise en place approach makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free, letting you focus on the flavors as you go.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

Heat the ghee or butter along with the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the sliced leeks, diced carrots, parsnips, celery, and red potatoes. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and fresh black pepper. Cook everything for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become translucent, releasing their beautiful aromas.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Garlic

Stir in the Italian seasoning and dried parsley, then press in the garlic cloves. Mix well so those fragrant herbs and garlic coat the veggies, creating a wonderfully seasoned base that’s full of depth.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes first, then add your choice of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the whole pot to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer, covered. Allow it to cook for around 15 minutes or until the roots are tender but still hold a little bite – you want that lovely texture, not mushiness.

Step 5: Finish with Greens and Peas

Turn off the heat and fold in the peas, chopped kale, fresh parsley, and a small squeeze of lemon juice. These fresh ingredients add a burst of color and brighten the flavors, perfectly rounding out your soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

How to Serve Hearty Vegetable Soup with Roots and Greens Recipe

Hearty Vegetable Soup with Roots and Greens Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a few twists of cracked black pepper add lovely fresh notes and visual appeal. For a hint of creaminess, a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can work wonders, balancing the earthiness with a smooth tang.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or even a simple green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last flavorful spoonful. If you’re looking for heartier options, consider a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of roasted root vegetables for a cozy meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls to keep the comforting vibe alive. For a fun twist, try topping it with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch or drizzle a bit of good quality olive oil on top. You can also make individual portions using small, oven-safe ramekins and broil a little grated cheese on top for a gratin-style finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the soup even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for easy weeknight meals or quick lunches.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge or after freezing, add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Absolutely! Spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens are wonderful substitutes. Just add them near the end of cooking as you would kale, since they wilt quickly.

Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen veggies can be a convenient option. Just keep in mind frozen ones may release more water, so you might want to adjust the broth quantity slightly to maintain your desired soup texture.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Definitely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and the ghee or butter can be substituted with extra olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a fully vegan and wholesome dish.

How do I make this soup more filling?

Consider adding cooked beans or lentils to the soup, or serve it alongside hearty grains like quinoa or barley. They add protein and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying.

What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

A simple mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme can easily replace Italian seasoning. These herbs will maintain that signature Mediterranean flavor without needing a premade blend.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Vegetable Soup with Roots and Greens Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes you appreciate the simple pleasures of good food. It’s comforting, nutritious, and so versatile that you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. Give it a try and share the warmth and satisfaction that a great homemade soup can bring to your table!