12 Easy & Healthy Soup Recipes for Nutritious Meals in Minutes

If you’re in the mood for something comforting yet nutritious, healthy soup recipes are perfect. Whether you’re craving a hearty bowl of vegetable soup or something creamy and indulgent without all the extra calories, there are so many delicious options to try.

Soups are great for any season, and they’re incredibly versatile. You can pack them with fresh veggies, lean proteins, or flavorful spices for a wholesome meal. Plus, they’re often easy to prepare and make for excellent leftovers. Check out these easy and healthy soup recipes to warm your heart and nourish your body!

Recipes

1. Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nourishment. Tender chicken pieces are combined with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. It’s a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day. The flavors are balanced just right—mild yet flavorful, with herbs that bring everything together beautifully.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, ladle, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast (cubed)
3 carrots (sliced)
2 celery stalks (diced)
2 potatoes (cubed)
1 onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
6 cups chicken broth
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Instructions:

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and onions, and sauté for another 2 minutes.
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir and cook for 3 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth, then season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes until vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Serve with: A warm crusty baguette or whole grain bread.
Drink with: A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

2. Lentil Soup

Lentil Soup is a delicious and nutritious bowl of goodness. Packed with hearty lentils, aromatic spices, and vegetables, this soup is a fantastic meal on its own. It has an earthy, comforting flavor, with a touch of cumin and garlic for depth. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Large pot, ladle, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

1 cup dried lentils (rinsed)
1 onion (chopped)
2 carrots (diced)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp cumin
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Instructions:

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
Stir in lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 35-40 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Serve with: A side of warm pita bread or garlic toast.
Drink with: A glass of red wine, such as Merlot, or lemon-infused water for a refreshing touch.

3. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Fresh tomatoes and basil bring a bright, zesty taste, while a hint of cream adds richness. It’s smooth and comforting, with just the right balance of acidity and sweetness to make every spoonful delicious.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Course: Main or starter
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large pot, blender or immersion blender
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

6 ripe tomatoes (chopped)
1 onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Instructions:

In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes until they start to break down.
Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for another 10 minutes.
Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in the cream and fresh basil. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve with: Grilled cheese sandwich or a side of buttery garlic bread.
Drink with: A crisp Chardonnay or sparkling water with a lemon wedge.

4. Butternut Squash Soup

Rich and velvety, Butternut Squash Soup is the ultimate fall favorite. Roasted butternut squash is blended into a creamy base, with subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance its natural sweetness. It’s a smooth, luscious soup that’s both comforting and luxurious in its simplicity.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, blender, large pot
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

1 butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
1 onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
1 tsp salt

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread cubed squash on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes until tender.
In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in the coconut milk or cream. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve with: Crusty bread or a side salad.
Drink with: A glass of Riesling or hot apple cider.

5. Minestrone Soup

A classic Italian favorite, Minestrone Soup is a hearty and healthy dish packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta. It’s a flavorful, comforting meal that’s light but filling, with a rich tomato broth and plenty of textures from the veggies. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large pot, ladle
No. of ingredients: 12

Ingredients:

1 onion (chopped)
2 carrots (diced)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
2 zucchinis (diced)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can kidney beans (drained)
1 cup small pasta (elbows or shells)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp basil
1 tsp salt

Instructions:

In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
Add zucchini, diced tomatoes, beans, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and salt. Bring to a boil.
Add pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Serve with: Parmesan cheese on top and a slice of garlic bread.
Drink with: A light red wine like Chianti or sparkling water with lime.

6. Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, indulgent bowl of pure comfort. Tender broccoli florets swim in a rich, cheesy broth made from sharp cheddar, creating a soup that’s hearty, cheesy, and totally satisfying. It’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave something warm and decadent.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, whisk
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

2 cups broccoli florets
1 onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt

Instructions:

In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the broccoli.
Cook for 10-12 minutes until broccoli is tender. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt into the soup.
Season with salt and serve hot.

Serve with: A warm bread roll or croutons.
Drink with: A cold glass of cider or an IPA beer for a delicious contrast.

7. Mushroom Barley Soup

Mushroom Barley Soup is a hearty, earthy dish that’s packed with rich flavors. The tender mushrooms and chewy barley make for a perfect combination, while the broth, infused with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, ties everything together in a comforting, savory experience. This soup has a robust, satisfying texture that makes it perfect for a cold day or a nourishing weeknight dinner.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Eastern European
Equipment: Large pot, ladle, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

1 cup pearl barley
2 cups mushrooms (sliced)
1 onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 carrots (diced)
1 celery stalk (diced)
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Instructions:

In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat for 3 minutes.
Add carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are soft.
Stir in barley, thyme, salt, and pepper, then pour in the vegetable broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes until the barley is tender.

Serve with: A slice of buttered rye bread.
Drink with: A glass of robust red wine, like Pinot Noir, or a warm herbal tea.

8. Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup

This Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup is a creamy, velvety bowl of goodness with a sweet, savory flavor that’s incredibly comforting. The natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes and carrots blends beautifully with the spices, creating a balanced, rich taste. It’s not just flavorful but also packed with vitamins, making it a wholesome and nourishing choice.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, blender or immersion blender
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

2 sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
3 carrots (sliced)
1 onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Instructions:

Heat a large pot over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
Add sweet potatoes and carrots, stirring for another 5 minutes.
Pour in vegetable broth, then season with cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 25-30 minutes, then blend the soup until smooth.

Serve with: A side of crusty sourdough bread.
Drink with: A chilled glass of sparkling water or ginger tea.

9. Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is the ultimate comfort food with its rich, thick consistency and deeply satisfying flavor. The split peas break down as they simmer, creating a creamy texture without the need for dairy. Infused with smoky ham or a vegetarian alternative, and packed with herbs and vegetables, this soup is hearty, wholesome, and perfect for a cozy meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, ladle, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

1 cup dried split peas (rinsed)
1 onion (chopped)
2 carrots (sliced)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
Add split peas, thyme, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Season with salt and pepper, remove the bay leaf, and serve hot.

Serve with: Freshly baked cornbread or multigrain crackers.
Drink with: A crisp apple cider or a light beer.

10. Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a vibrant and zesty dish that’s bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors. Tender shredded chicken, corn, and black beans swim in a rich tomato broth with a kick of spice. Topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, every spoonful is a fiesta for your taste buds.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Large pot, ladle, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 12

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast (shredded)
1 onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 can black beans (drained)
1 cup corn kernels
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla strips
Avocado (sliced)

Instructions:

In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic for 3 minutes.
Add shredded chicken, tomatoes, beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Top with crispy tortilla strips and avocado slices.

Serve with: A side of guacamole and chips.
Drink with: A cold margarita or a refreshing lime soda.

11. Cauliflower Soup

Cauliflower Soup is a creamy, yet light dish that’s full of delicate flavor. The roasted cauliflower brings a rich, nutty taste, while a touch of garlic and onion gives the soup depth. It’s smooth and satisfying without being heavy, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, blender or immersion blender
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

1 head cauliflower (chopped)
1 onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk or cream
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Sauté onion and garlic in a large pot for 3 minutes.
Add chopped cauliflower, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until cauliflower is tender.
Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in milk or cream.

Serve with: A light green salad or breadsticks.
Drink with: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or sparkling water.

12. Zucchini and Leek Soup

Zucchini and Leek Soup is a vibrant, green, and flavorful dish. The mild sweetness of the zucchini complements the delicate onion-like flavor of the leeks perfectly. Blended into a creamy soup, it’s fresh, light, and ideal for any season. This soup has a velvety texture that makes it feel luxurious without being heavy.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: French
Equipment: Large pot, blender or immersion blender
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients: