Spring Vegetable Soup With Lemon

Name: Spring Vegetable Soup With Lemon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 potato, diced; 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 4 cups vegetable broth; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish

Highlighted under: Lean & Light

I absolutely love vibrant and refreshing flavors, which is why I created this Spring Vegetable Soup with Lemon. With the essence of fresh spring vegetables and a zing of lemon, this soup is perfect for celebrating the new season. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a beautiful, fragrant broth that not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. I enjoy serving this soup warm, allowing the bright notes of citrus to shine through, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:22:13.693Z

When I first made this Spring Vegetable Soup, I experimented with various seasonal vegetables to celebrate the arrival of spring. The combination of fresh peas, asparagus, and leeks results in a light, colorful dish that is comforting yet vibrant. I found that adding lemon at the end really brightens the flavors and makes the soup feel lively.

Each spoonful of this soup takes me back to sunny days in the garden, surrounded by blooming flowers. It’s wonderful to see how simple ingredients can create something so delicious and refreshing. This soup is also highly adaptable, so feel free to use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing with the perfect hint of lemon
Packed with seasonal vegetables for a nutrient-dense meal
A versatile recipe that can be easily customized with your favorite veggies

Choosing Seasonal Vegetables

Spring is an ideal time to enjoy the plethora of vibrant vegetables available. When making this soup, feel free to swap in any seasonal favorites you might find at your local market. Radishes, zucchini, or even fresh herbs can easily replace or complement the asparagus and peas. Just be mindful of cooking times; quick-cooking veggies should be added later in the process to maintain their texture and flavor.

It's also a great way to experiment with texture. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider lightly microwaving or steaming your vegetables before adding them to the broth. This method ensures they stay firm even after simmering, creating a delightful contrast with the soup's smooth broth.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

The foundation of this soup relies heavily on the aromatics, specifically the onion and garlic. Sauté them until they're fragrant and translucent; this enhances the overall depth of the soup. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the aromatics for a subtle kick without overpowering the fresh flavors.

For added richness, consider finishing the soup with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil before serving. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives a lovely sheen to the broth, making it visually appealing. Alternatively, a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can add creaminess and a tangy element.

Storing and Reheating

This Spring Vegetable Soup stores well, making it a perfect make-ahead dish. After cooling, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just be sure to leave out any garnishes, as fresh herbs and toppings can lose their texture and flavor when frozen.

When reheating, do so gently over medium heat on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup, as it may thicken in the fridge. Stir frequently and monitor closely to prevent scorching. A quick taste test before serving allows you to adjust the seasoning or add a splash of lemon juice for that bright flavor boost!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious soup:

Soup Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 potato, diced
1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
4 cups vegetable broth
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish

Ensure all vegetables are chopped evenly for even cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bowl of Spring Vegetable Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the diced carrot and potato to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Add Asparagus and Peas

Stir in the asparagus and peas. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Finish with Lemon

Remove the pot from heat, and stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy!

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or green beans based on what's in season.

Customization ideas

If you're looking to add more protein to your soup, consider incorporating canned chickpeas or cooked lentils. These can be added in the last few minutes of cooking and will blend seamlessly with the vegetables, enhancing the nutrient profile without compromising the soup's lightness.

For a creamier version, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the lemon juice. This technique creates a luscious base while still allowing chunky vegetables to shine in the final presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad, making it a versatile choice for lunch or dinner. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon directly over the top just before enjoying can elevate your meal.

If you are hosting, consider serving it in small cups as a starter for a spring gathering or brunch. Guests will love the refreshing burst of flavor, and its vibrant color will add a beautiful touch to your table setting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth?

Yes, chicken broth can be used for added depth of flavor.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I make this soup creamy?

You can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to achieve a creamy consistency.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.