Name: Green Olive Soup: An Incredible Vegetarian Recipe with Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 large potatoes (about 400g), peeled and cubed; 1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Green Olive Soup: An Incredible Vegetarian Recipe with Herbs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Green Olive Soup is a one-pot wonder that’s full of Mediterranean flavors. The combination of creamy potatoes, briny olives, and fresh herbs creates a satisfying, rich taste that’s surprisingly light and healthy. It’s a versatile soup that can be served as a starter, main course, or even as a refreshing addition to a meal. The olives add a distinct, savory depth, while the fresh cilantro and parsley bring brightness and freshness to every spoonful. Plus, it’s vegan and can be customized with a variety of toppings to make it your own!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 large potatoes (about 400g), peeled and cubed
1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Green Olive Soup: An Incredible Vegetarian Recipe with Herbs

Directions

Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Cook Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 12–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add Olives and Herbs: Stir in the sliced olives, chopped cilantro, and parsley. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend half of the soup directly in the pot, or transfer part of it to a traditional blender. Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot and stir.
Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed. Serve the soup hot, with optional lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3–4 servings

Variations

Creamy Version: Add a spoonful of coconut cream or blend in some white beans to create a creamy texture without dairy.
Add Protein: Stir in chickpeas for an extra boost of protein, or top the soup with grilled tofu or tempeh.
Spicy Kick: For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onion and garlic.
Different Olives: Experiment with different varieties of green olives for a new twist on the soup’s flavor. Some may be more tangy, while others could be milder.

Storage/Reheating

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they meld together.

Can I use black olives instead of green olives?

While green olives are recommended for their briny, tangy flavor, black olives can be used as a substitute if you prefer them. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Green Olive Soup is naturally gluten-free. Be sure to check your vegetable broth to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten.

Can I make this soup creamy without blending it?

Yes! If you want a creamy texture without blending, try adding a dollop of coconut cream or stir in some blended white beans once the soup is cooked.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic at the beginning.

What kind of green olives are best for this soup?

Choose high-quality green olives that are firm and flavorful. Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or Arbequina olives are great choices for this soup.

Can I add a protein to this soup?

Yes, chickpeas, grilled tofu, or tempeh would work wonderfully to add some plant-based protein. Just add them to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking.

How can I make the soup spicier?

If you like your soup with a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh potatoes for the best texture, but if you use frozen potatoes, be sure to add them at the same time you would add the fresh potatoes, as they may take a bit longer to cook.

How can I adjust the seasoning in this soup?

Taste the soup after it’s simmered and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Green Olive Soup is a unique and refreshing dish that’s full of flavor, thanks to the briny olives, fresh herbs, and hearty potatoes. It’s an easy, healthy, and vegetarian-friendly option that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a light lunch. Whether you enjoy it as-is or make variations to suit your taste, this soup is sure to impress anyone who loves Mediterranean flavors. With its simple ingredients and bright, zesty profile, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and time again.