This Hearty Slow Cooker Harvest Vegetable Soup is like autumn in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and comforting, it's packed with vibrant vegetables and flavorful herbs, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Olive oil brings everything together with a smooth, rich base. Onion and garlic form the aromatic backbone, giving a savory depth. Carrots and celery add a classic soup flavor and a touch of sweetness and crunch. Sweet potato and butternut squash provide heartiness and a lovely, subtle sweetness. Green beans introduce a nice texture contrast. Diced tomatoes bring a bit of acidity, balancing the flavors. Vegetable broth is the liquid gold that melds everything together. The trio of herbs — thyme, rosemary, and oregano — adds an earthy, aromatic warmth. A pinch of black pepper and salt enhances all the flavors. Finally, kale and fresh parsley finish the soup with a pop of color and freshness.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty sourdough bread or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top. If you're feeling indulgent, serve it with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for a soothing meal.
Start by heating your trusty skillet over medium heat with the olive oil. Toss in the onion and garlic, and let them sauté until they're soft and aromatic, filling your kitchen with that comforting smell of home-cooked goodness.
Next, add the carrots and celery. Cook these for about five minutes until they start to soften slightly — you want them to retain a bit of crunch since they'll continue cooking in the slow cooker.
Now, transfer this fragrant mix into your slow cooker. Add the sweet potato, butternut squash, green beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir again, ensuring the herbs and seasonings are well distributed. Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the kale. This gives it just enough time to wilt beautifully without losing its vibrant green color. Before serving, garnish with the fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.