If you’re craving a soup that’s both cozy and nourishing, look no further than this Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful, combining the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of celery, and the comforting bite of tender rice all swimming in a delicate broth. Whether you’re new to soup-making or a seasoned home cook, this recipe effortlessly balances simplicity with satisfying flavors to become a go-to in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, just wholesome ingredients that each bring their own special touch to this soup. From the olive oil’s richness to the fresh crunch of vegetables, every element builds layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so delightful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps soften the vegetables beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 4 carrots, chopped: Offers bright color and a gentle sweetness that balances the broth.
- 4 stalks celery, chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that livens up the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth*: Forms the savory base and infuses the soup with comforting umami.
- 4 cups water: Helps extend the broth gently, keeping the flavors light yet satisfying.
- 1/2 cup rice: The hearty, tender grain that makes this soup filling and homey.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: A simple herb that brightens the dish with subtle earthy notes.
How to Make Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers—that’s your cue to add in the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes while stirring occasionally. You want the veggies tender yet still vibrant and translucent. This step unlocks the sweet, savory base that this Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe is built on.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Bring to a Boil
Once those veggies have softened just right, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir everything together and bring the pot to a rolling boil. This bubbling moment helps meld those vegetable flavors with the broth, setting the stage for the rice to soak up all the deliciousness.
Step 3: Cook the Rice and Herbs
As the soup reaches a boil, sprinkle in the rice and dried parsley. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium so the soup simmers gently. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has softened and the soup feels lovely and hearty. Then ladle it out straight away and prepare to enjoy the cozy comfort of your homemade creation.
How to Serve Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While this soup shines on its own, a little extra brightness can take it to the next level. Try sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or a few cracks of black pepper on top. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan works beautifully to elevate each mouthful.
Side Dishes
This Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or a light green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a grilled cheese sandwich is always a classic and comforting companion to dunk into the broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving this soup in mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic twist that’s perfect for guests. Alternatively, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of pesto for a burst of flavor and a bit of elegance. This soup adapts beautifully to whatever mood you’re in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to stash away some extra for busy days. Choose a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickened too much while stored. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but the stove method helps preserve that fresh, homemade flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth makes this Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing the savory depth. Just make sure it’s a good-quality broth for the best flavor.
What type of rice works best in this soup?
Long-grain white rice is ideal here because it cooks evenly and gives you that lovely tender texture without becoming mushy. You can experiment with brown rice, but it will take longer to cook.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Feel free to toss in green beans, peas, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes to customize the soup to your liking. Just add any additional veggies along with the onions, carrots, and celery so they cook evenly.
Is this soup gluten-free?
This Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth. Always double-check your broth label if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
How do I make the soup more filling?
For an extra hearty version, add cooked shredded chicken or beans for protein. You can also stir in some grated cheese on top or serve it alongside a protein-rich side to make a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe inspires you to cozy up with a bowl of homemade goodness. It’s the kind of dish that’s quick to make, easy on the wallet, and wonderfully satisfying any time of year. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite weeknight go-tos!
Print
Simple Vegetable Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make Simple Vegetable Rice Soup featuring a flavorful blend of onions, carrots, celery, and tender rice simmered in chicken broth. Perfect for a light lunch or soothing dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and delivers wholesome warmth in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks celery, chopped
Liquid
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups water
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Heat the oil and cook vegetables: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering. Add diced onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and the onions turn translucent.
- Add broth and water, then bring to boil: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 4 cups of water. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add rice and parsley, then simmer: Once boiling, add 1/2 cup of rice and 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium, and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Serve immediately for best flavor and temperature.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer a lower salt content.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- You can add other vegetables like peas or corn for added texture and nutrition.
- Adjust the rice cooking time if using a different type of rice to ensure it is tender.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
