Spring Vegetable Soup With Lemon

Name: Spring Vegetable Soup With Lemon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 cups asparagus, trimmed and chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen); Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Spring Vegetable Soup with Lemon as the weather warms up! The vibrant colors and fresh flavors come together beautifully, creating a dish that's both nutritious and delightful to the senses. The zesty lemon elevates the freshness of the vegetables, making each spoonful a burst of springtime goodness. It's a perfect way to celebrate the season and a fantastic introduction to lighter meals after months of heavy comfort food. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it easy to whip up on a busy day!

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:13:34.705Z

When I first tried making this soup, I wanted to capture the essence of spring in a bowl. By using fresh, seasonal vegetables and a dash of lemon, I found that it not only tastes vibrant but also feels revitalizing. The key is to add the lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the soup, making it feel lighter and more refreshing.

After my first successful pot of soup, I began experimenting with various herbs for added depth. I discovered that a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill brings out the flavors of the vegetables in a delightful way, making each serving a celebration of spring. It's now a staple in our home during the changing seasons!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and fresh flavors that celebrate the season
Low in calories, making it a guilt-free meal
Easily customizable with your favorite spring vegetables
Perfect for a light lunch or as a side at dinner

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this Spring Vegetable Soup lies in its versatility. While the core ingredients include carrots, celery, zucchini, asparagus, and green peas, feel free to substitute or add your favorite spring vegetables. For instance, snap peas or diced bell peppers can enhance the soup's crunch and sweetness. Just aim for about 6-7 cups of mixed vegetables for the best flavor balance. The goal is to have a colorful mosaic that celebrates the freshness of spring!

When selecting asparagus, look for firm, straight stalks with tightly closed tips. They should have a bright green color, indicating freshness. If you're using frozen peas, no need to thaw them; just toss them in directly as you add the broth. The cooking time will ensure they heat through while maintaining their vibrant color and sweet flavor.

Cooking Technique Tips

Sautéing the onion and garlic until softened is crucial for building flavor. You want to cook them just until translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes over medium heat. Avoid browning them too much, as this can introduce bitterness to the soup. If you notice any browning, lower the heat slightly and add a splash of broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any stuck bits for added depth.

Simmering the mixture after adding the vegetable broth should be done gently. Bring it to a light simmer rather than a rolling boil, which can cause the vegetables to become mushy. Cooking for about 10-15 minutes will soften the vegetables while preserving some texture. You'll know they are ready when the asparagus is tender but still bright green and the peas pop with sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 cups asparagus, trimmed and chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Make sure to use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Incorporate the chopped asparagus and green peas, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Lemon

Once the soup is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Enjoy your homemade soup warm, perfect for any springtime meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or legumes based on what's in season or available in your kitchen.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Spring Vegetable Soup is an excellent option for meal prep. You can cook a batch in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the soup's consistency. Avoid boiling it again, as this can overcook the vegetables and dull their vibrant colors.

If you plan on freezing the soup, it's best to do so without the lemon juice. Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove, adding fresh lemon juice just before serving to maintain that bright flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Spring Vegetable Soup experience, consider pairing it with a light side salad or crusty bread for dipping. A good bread, like a baguette or sourdough, not only complements the soup's flavors but also provides a satisfying texture contrast. You might also like to serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.

For a more substantial meal, this soup can be served alongside grilled chicken or fish. The citrusy notes from the lemon will beautifully enhance the flavors of grilled meats. If you're looking for vegetarian options, adding quinoa or chickpeas to the soup can make it heartier, offering a great boost of protein that pairs well with the fresh vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

→ Are there any variations I can try?

You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach, or even include some pasta or rice for a heartier version.