Simple Homemade Grain Vegetable Soup

A comforting, nourishing soup featuring whole grains and fresh vegetables—perfect for a light lunch or cozy meal any day.

I love making this soup on chilly days because it fills the house with a warm inviting aroma and comforts the whole family.

Ingredients

• Grains: 1/2 cup (90 g) pearl barley (or brown rice, quinoa, or farro)
• Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced, 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced, 2 celery stalks, sliced, 1 medium zucchini, diced, 1 cup (150 g) green beans, trimmed and chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 large tomato, diced)
• Broth & Seasonings: 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium vegetable broth, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, Salt and pepper, to taste
• Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

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Step 1:

Rinse the grains under cold running water.

Step 2:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until starting to soften.

Step 3:

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Step 4:

Stir in the grains and toast for 12 minutes.

Step 5:

Add zucchini, green beans, tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a boil.

Step 6:

Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 3035 minutes, or until grains and vegetables are tender.

Step 7:

Remove bay leaf. Stir in parsley and lemon juice, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8:

Serve hot, optionally with crusty bread.

Blend smoothies, sauces, dips, and prep ingredients quickly for fast meals and everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Blend smoothies, sauces, dips, and prep ingredients quickly for fast meals and everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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This soup always brings us together as a family, sharing warmth and stories around the dinner table.

Notes

For a heartier meal, add cooked beans or shredded rotisserie chicken if not vegetarian. Pairs well with a light Sauvignon Blanc or herbal tea.

Required Tools

Large soup pot, chefs knife, cutting board, and wooden spoon.

Allergen Information

Contains gluten if using barley or farro. For gluten-free, use rice or quinoa. No common allergens otherwise but always check broth labels for hidden ingredients.

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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This soup is a simple way to nourish yourself and your loved ones on any day.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use other grains besides pearl barley?

Yes, grains like brown rice, quinoa, or farro can be substituted to suit dietary needs or preferences.

→ How long should the grains and vegetables simmer?

Simmer them covered for 30 to 35 minutes until both are tender and flavors meld beautifully.

→ Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Using quinoa or rice instead of barley or farro makes this soup gluten-free while maintaining texture and taste.

→ Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Cooked beans or shredded chicken can be added for extra heartiness if desired.

→ What fresh herbs enhance the flavor best?

Thyme and oregano build the base, while fresh parsley added at the end brightens the overall profile.

→ What side dishes pair well with this soup?

Crusty bread or a light herbal tea complement the flavors and round out the meal nicely.