Lemon Herb Soup

Featured in: Quick Weeknight Dinners

This vibrant Mediterranean-style bowl combines the bright zest of fresh lemons with a medley of aromatic herbs. The light broth base carries notes of parsley, dill, chives, and thyme, creating a soothing yet invigorating dish perfect for any season. Ready in just 40 minutes, this vegetarian preparation delivers comforting warmth while remaining refreshingly light.

Updated on Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:00:37 GMT
Bright yellow Lemon Herb Soup steaming in a rustic bowl, topped with fresh parsley, dill, and a lemon slice. Save
Bright yellow Lemon Herb Soup steaming in a rustic bowl, topped with fresh parsley, dill, and a lemon slice. | forkina.com

A bowl of Lemon Herb Soup is a bright, refreshing experience that brings Mediterranean sunshine to your table. This vibrant dish perfectly balances zesty citrus notes with a fragrant medley of fresh herbs, making it an ideal choice for a light appetizer or a soothing main course.

Bright yellow Lemon Herb Soup steaming in a rustic bowl, topped with fresh parsley, dill, and a lemon slice. Pin it
Bright yellow Lemon Herb Soup steaming in a rustic bowl, topped with fresh parsley, dill, and a lemon slice. | forkina.com

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The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. By sautéing aromatic vegetables like carrots and celery before simmering them in a savory vegetable broth, you create a light yet flavorful base that allows the fresh dill, parsley, and chives to truly shine.

Ingredients

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  • Vegetables: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 2 medium carrots (diced), 2 celery stalks (diced).
  • Broth: 5 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred).
  • Citrus & Herbs: Zest of 1 lemon, Juice of 2 lemons (about 6 tablespoons), 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped), 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped), 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme).
  • Other: ½ cup cooked rice or orzo (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Instructions

Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Step 2
Add garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3
Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, chives, and thyme. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 5
Add cooked rice or orzo if using. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Step 6
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and lemon slices if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a heartier soup, add shredded cooked chicken during the final simmering stages.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

Swap dill or chives for basil or tarragon for a different flavor profile that suits your personal preference.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete and balanced meal.

A spoon dipping into a bowl of Lemon Herb Soup, revealing vibrant carrots, celery, and rice in clear broth. Pin it
A spoon dipping into a bowl of Lemon Herb Soup, revealing vibrant carrots, celery, and rice in clear broth. | forkina.com

Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a comforting starter, this Lemon Herb Soup offers a clean, sophisticated taste that is sure to please.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this soup unique?

The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice with a variety of herbs creates a bright, refreshing flavor profile uncommon in traditional soups.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors actually develop and improve when refrigerated overnight. Add fresh herbs just before serving for the best presentation.

Is this suitable for special diets?

This preparation is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free when using appropriate rice. Always verify your broth ingredients match your dietary requirements.

How can I add more protein?

Shredded cooked chicken, white beans, or chickpeas can be added during the last few minutes of heating for a more substantial meal.

What herbs work best as substitutions?

Basil, tarragon, or cilantro can replace dill or chives. The key is using fresh herbs for the brightest flavor impact.

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Lemon Herb Soup

Vibrant citrus-infused soup with fresh herbs, ready in 40 minutes for a light meal.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 4 servings

Dietary: Vegan, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Vegetables

01 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 2 medium carrots, diced
05 2 celery stalks, diced

Broth

01 5 cups vegetable broth, low sodium

Citrus & Herbs

01 Zest of 1 lemon
02 Juice of 2 lemons, approximately 6 tablespoons
03 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
04 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
05 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
06 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Optional & Seasoning

01 1/2 cup cooked rice or orzo, optional
02 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3 minutes.

Step 02

Build Base Vegetables: Add minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 03

Simmer Broth: Pour vegetable broth into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 04

Infuse Citrus & Herbs: Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, chives, and thyme. Simmer for another 5 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 05

Add Texture Element: Add cooked rice or orzo if using. Heat through for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 06

Final Seasoning & Service: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices if desired.

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Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Citrus zester or grater

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains no common allergens when using gluten-free rice or certified gluten-free orzo.
  • If using orzo, verify gluten-free certification for celiac disease sensitivity.
  • Review vegetable broth ingredient label for potential allergens or additives.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 110
  • Total Fat: 3 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein: 3 g

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