Simple Homemade Grain Vegetable

A comforting, nourishing soup featuring whole grains and fresh vegetables—perfect for a light lunch or cozy meal any day.

This simple homemade grain and vegetable soup quickly became my go-to comfort food because of its ease and wholesome ingredients.

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

Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.

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Step 1 Rinse the grains under cold running water

Step 2 Heat olive oil and sauté onion carrots and celery 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 and 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

Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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My family always gathers around this warm soup on chilly evenings sharing stories and laughter.

Notes

Pairs well with a light Sauvignon Blanc or herbal tea and can be customized easily.

Required Tools

Large soup pot Chefs knife Cutting board Wooden spoon

Allergen Information

Contains gluten if using barley or farro For gluten-free use rice or quinoa No common allergens otherwise but always check broth labels for hidden ingredients

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Ideal for slow-simmered sauces, braised vegetables, baked dips, and cozy one-pot meals with even heat.

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This soup is both nutritious and adaptable making it a perfect everyday meal option.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other grains instead of barley?

Yes, quinoa, brown rice, or farro can be used as alternatives for varied textures and flavors.

→ How do I adjust cooking time for different grains?

Check grain package instructions; some grains like quinoa cook faster, so adjust simmering accordingly.

→ What seasonal vegetables work well in this dish?

Spinach, peas, corn, or kale can be added or swapped in for variety and freshness.

→ Is this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet?

Yes, it contains no dairy ingredients and uses olive oil for cooking.

→ How can I boost the protein content?

Add cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken for a heartier version.