There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with vibrant veggies and tender shrimp, kissed by the zest of fresh lemon and a punch of garlic. This Lemon-Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Soup is a bright, nourishing dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy lunch. It’s light yet satisfying, with a melody of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you’re craving something wholesome or need a break from heavy meals, this soup is an easy-to-make option that hits all the right notes.

The Upside of Lemon-Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Soup

This soup is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. The shrimp provides a lean protein that cooks quickly, making this a speedy recipe to whip up. The medley of fresh vegetables — carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans — adds a delightful crunch and a boost of vitamins. The lemon juice brightens everything up with a refreshing tang, perfectly balancing the savory garlic and rich olive oil. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, which makes it friendly for many dietary preferences.

One of the best parts? It’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or add a handful of leafy greens for an extra nutrient punch. This soup also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. If you love shrimp dishes, you might want to check out Sticky Sesame Garlic Shrimp for another flavorful shrimp-centric recipe.

What You’ll Gather

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Toolbox for This Recipe

Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking the soup evenly
Cutting board and sharp knife – for prepping vegetables
Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula – to stir the ingredients
Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning
Lemon squeezer (optional) – to easily extract fresh lemon juice

Cook Lemon-Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Soup Like This

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, until they turn translucent and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds to release its aroma, making sure it doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add the diced carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes, letting the veggies soften slightly while still keeping their crunch.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to cook through.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the simmering soup. Shrimp cooks quickly—about 3 to 4 minutes—until it turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, or the shrimp will become tough.

Step 5: Brighten with Lemon and Season

Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give the soup a final stir to combine all the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a subtle heat.
Swap the vegetable broth for chicken broth if you prefer a richer flavor.
Stir in some cooked quinoa or rice to make it a heartier soup.
Incorporate chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for added greens.
Finish with a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan (optional) for indulgence.

Pro Tips & Notes

Shrimp selection: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well here. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
Vegetable variations: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Green peas, corn, or mushrooms can add interesting textures.
Lemon juice: Always add lemon juice at the end to preserve its bright flavor.
Adjust seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Meal prep friendly: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.

Best Ways to Store

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this soup?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before adding it to the soup. This ensures even cooking and prevents the soup from cooling down too much during cooking.

Is it possible to make this soup spicy?

Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic to give the soup a gentle kick of heat.

Can I substitute the vegetable broth with something else?

Yes, chicken broth or seafood broth can be used if you prefer a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that using broth with animal products will change the overall flavor profile slightly but will still complement the shrimp beautifully.

How can I make this soup more filling?

Consider adding cooked grains like rice or quinoa, or tossing in some small pasta shapes during the last few minutes of cooking. These additions will make the soup heartier and more substantial.

Try These Next

Sweet Corn And Shrimp Chowder – a creamy twist on shrimp soup featuring sweet corn.
Sticky Sesame Garlic Shrimp – a flavorful shrimp dish perfect for a quick dinner.

See You at the Table

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a bowl of homemade soup that’s filled with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. This Lemon-Garlic Shrimp & Veggie Soup is a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, delicious, and quick meal. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend lunch, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, grab your spoon, take a deep breath of that lemony garlic aroma, and enjoy every cozy bite. Happy cooking!

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