Spring Vegetable Soup With Lemon

Name: Spring Vegetable Soup With Lemon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 cup peas; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I absolutely love making this Spring Vegetable Soup with Lemon as the days turn warmer. The fresh vegetables truly shine in this vibrant dish, and the bright notes of lemon elevate it to a whole new level. Every spoonful bursts with flavor, reminding me of sunny afternoons and fresh gardens. It's a recipe that encourages me to embrace the bounty of spring produce while delivering a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:43:04.415Z

When I first made this soup, I didn’t expect the vibrant flavor to come from such simple ingredients. The combination of fresh spring vegetables really makes a difference. During one of my cooking adventures, I stumbled upon the idea of adding lemon, which added a delightful brightness to the soup. It’s incredible how a little citrus can elevate the overall taste!

Cooking this soup becomes a ritual for me every spring. It defines the season and warms up even the rainiest days. One tip I always remember is to use fresh herbs like dill or parsley at the end of cooking; they bring a fragrance that truly complements the vegetables. This simple addition makes it feel special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors that celebrate spring
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Highly customizable with your favorite vegetables

Embracing the Freshness of Spring

Spring is the perfect time to explore the vibrant flavors that seasonal vegetables offer. In this soup, vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, and peas are used not only for their taste but also for their texture. Each vegetable brings its own character to the dish—zucchini adding a slight creaminess, while green beans provide a satisfying crunch. The combination creates a tapestry of textures that makes every spoonful delightful.

Don’t hesitate to incorporate other spring vegetables you enjoy! Asparagus, radishes, or even spinach can be excellent substitutes or additions. When adding new ingredients, consider the cooking time for each; for example, asparagus cooks quickly, so add it later in the simmering process to maintain its vibrant color and tender-crisp texture.

Perfecting Your Soup Technique

Getting the sautéing step right is crucial for building flavor in your soup. Start by heating the olive oil until shimmering, then add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. This combination, known as mirepoix, forms the flavor base of your soup. Sauté the vegetables until they're soft and glistening—this usually takes about 5 minutes. If you notice the vegetables starting to brown, simply reduce the heat slightly; you want them to soften without burning.

Another important tip is to monitor your simmering time. Allow the soup to simmer on low heat until the vegetables are tender, usually around 20 minutes. This gentle cooking method helps to preserve the bright colors and flavors of your ingredients. Keep an eye on the texture; the vegetables should be tender but not mushy, maintaining a pleasant bite.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 cup peas
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Incorporate Vegetables

Once boiling, add the zucchini, green beans, and peas. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Lemon

Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a heartier soup, consider adding cooked grains such as quinoa or orzo. Also, feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to make the soup your own.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great meal prep option. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up a bit before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When freezing, consider leaving out the lemon juice and zest until you reheat; this ensures the citrus stays bright and fresh when you serve it later.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the bright flavors of your Spring Vegetable Soup, I recommend serving it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating. This gives the soup an additional zing that complements the freshness of the vegetables beautifully. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can also provide a creamy contrast that's delicious.

If you want to transform this soup into a heartier meal, consider adding some cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrients. Serve it alongside some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. This soup is versatile and pairs well with a light salad or even grilled fish for a more robust dinner experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before serving.

→ Is the soup suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This soup is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add beans or lentils for extra protein, or even shredded chicken if desired.