This slow cooker vegetable soup recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. It’s packed with nutritious vegetables, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. Simply toss everything in your slow cooker, and let it simmer to perfection while you focus on other things. This recipe is easily customizable to your favorite vegetables and spice preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
What Vegetables Can I Use in Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While the recipe below provides a great foundation, feel free to experiment! Almost any vegetable that holds its shape well during long cooking times is a good candidate. Popular choices include:
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet), sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, Brussels sprouts (halved)
- Other Vegetables: Celery, onions, green beans, zucchini (added later to prevent mushiness), bell peppers, corn (added towards the end)
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale (added during the last 30 minutes)
Remember to chop vegetables into roughly similar sizes for even cooking.
What Makes This Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup Recipe So Special?
This isn't your average vegetable soup. We've focused on creating a depth of flavor that elevates it beyond the ordinary. Here's what makes it stand out:
- Flavorful Broth: We use a combination of vegetable broth and a touch of tomato paste for a rich, savory base.
- Aromatic Spices: A blend of herbs and spices—bay leaf, thyme, oregano—adds warmth and complexity.
- Slow Cooking Magic: The slow cooker allows the vegetables to soften beautifully and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a deeply satisfying soup.
Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup Recipe
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped zucchini (add during the last hour)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Add the potatoes and green beans.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until vegetables are tender.
- During the last hour of cooking, stir in the broccoli and zucchini.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian/Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian, and easily adaptable to be vegan. Simply ensure you use vegetable broth that doesn't contain any animal products.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What Are Some Variations on This Recipe?
- Spicy Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Hearty Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked lentils or beans during the last hour of cooking.
- Creamy Soup: Stir in a dollop of coconut milk or heavy cream before serving (not vegan).
- Curried Soup: Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder along with the other spices.
This slow cooker vegetable soup recipe is a delicious and versatile way to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal. Experiment with different vegetables and spices to create your own perfect bowl of comfort. Enjoy!
