Save A comforting, nourishing soup featuring whole grains and fresh vegetables—perfect for a light lunch or cozy meal any day.
I've found this soup perfect for quick family lunches and easy-to-make dinners that everyone loves
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
- 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 1–2 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 30–35 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.
Save This soup has become a favorite in our family, often bringing us together for cozy meals and shared stories
Notes
Swap in seasonal vegetables like spinach, corn, or peas as desired. For a heartier meal, add cooked beans or shredded rotisserie chicken (if not vegetarian).
Required Tools
Large soup pot, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Wooden spoon
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 5 g
Save This simple soup is both nourishing and adaptable, making it a staple recipe to keep on hand.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the grains used in this soup?
Yes, you can replace pearl barley with gluten-free options such as quinoa, brown rice, or farro depending on dietary preferences.
- → What fresh vegetables are recommended for best flavor?
Onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, green beans, and tomatoes provide a balanced mix of sweetness and earthiness.
- → How long should the soup simmer for optimal texture?
Simmering for 30–35 minutes allows grains and vegetables to become tender and meld flavors perfectly.
- → Can I add protein to make this dish heartier?
Adding cooked beans or shredded poultry enhances protein content and makes the meal more substantial.
- → What herbs complement the flavor profile of this dish?
Thyme, oregano, and fresh parsley add aromatic depth without overpowering the natural taste.