Soupe Du Jour Recipe

Combine vegetable broth, water, bay leaves, thyme sprigs, and peppercorns in a large soup pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat while you prepare the aromatics.

Heat olive oil and butter (if using) in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until butter melts and foams. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 6–8 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown it.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor.

Transfer the sautéed aromatics into the simmering broth. Add the diced potato, zucchini, green beans, drained diced tomatoes, and cooked cannellini beans. Bring the pot back to a gentle simmer.

Add dried oregano and dried basil. Simmer, uncovered, until the potatoes and green beans are tender, about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If using short pasta as an add-in, add the uncooked pasta to the simmering soup at this stage and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 7–10 minutes). If using pre-cooked pasta, add it in the final 2 minutes to warm through to avoid becoming mushy.

Remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Taste the soup and stir in salt, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon juice if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.

If using leafy greens (spinach or kale), stir them in now and cook just until wilted (2–3 minutes).

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or vegan alternative if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Vegetarian & Customizable

This Soupe du Jour is fully vegetarian. Swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or lentils for different textures. For a heartier soup, add sautéed mushrooms or roasted root vegetables. For a lighter clear soup, omit the potato and reduce simmer time.

To make the soup ahead: cool completely, refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently and add fresh herbs and pasta/greens at serving to preserve texture.