Irresistible Nourishing Fish Soup Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again

If you’re craving a warm, wholesome meal that heals your body and satisfies your soul, this nourishing fish soup is exactly what you need. Made with simple ingredients like white fish, root vegetables, and immune-boosting herbs, this easy fish soup is ideal for busy weeknights, cold-weather meals, or when your body just needs a little extra care.

This healthy fish soup recipe is loaded with flavor, minerals, and clean protein — and it comes together in just 40 minutes. Plus, it’s adaptable, dairy-free, gluten-free, and family-friendly. Whether you’re new to homemade fish soup or looking for a gut-healing meal that’s gentle and filling, this is the best fish soup recipe to start with.

Save

What Makes This a Healthy Fish Soup Recipe?

Fish soup is comfort food that doesn’t compromise on health. Here’s what makes this version so nourishing:

• White fish like halibut or cod is lean, flaky, and rich in essential nutrients like omega-3s.
• Bone broth or fish stock supports joint and gut health, especially if you make it with fish heads and bones.
• Turmeric and garlic offer powerful anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Carrots, celery, and onions bring fiber, flavor, and micronutrients.
• No processed ingredients—just real, whole food.

You can enjoy this healthy fish soup as a light dinner, immune-boosting lunch, or part of your weekly clean-eating rotation. It’s also a great companion to nutrient-packed dishes like Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese or Cucumber Dill Salad.

Ingredients for Nourishing Fish Soup

You’ll love how these simple pantry staples come together in one comforting bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ghee or avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 6 cups fish broth or chicken broth
• 1½ pounds white fish (halibut, cod, or haddock), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups potatoes, diced (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Tip: If you love homemade broths, save fish heads and bones to simmer with aromatics for an easy, nourishing fish broth. You can also explore richer soup options like this Creamy Mushroom Soup for more inspiration.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This nourishing fish soup requires minimal equipment:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: Fine mesh strainer (if making homemade broth)

How to Make Nourishing Fish Soup Step-by-Step

This easy fish soup comes together in under an hour and tastes like it simmered all day.

1. Sauté the vegetables
   In a large pot over medium heat, heat the ghee or avocado oil. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add garlic and seasoning
   Add minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth
   Add your broth of choice and bring it to a gentle simmer. If using potatoes, add them now and simmer for 10–12 minutes or until fork-tender.
4. Add the fish
   Gently place the fish pieces into the broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6–8 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
5. Finish with lemon and herbs
   Squeeze in the lemon juice and taste for salt. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve hot.

Pair this soup with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs or Vegetable Casserole for a hearty, balanced meal.

Save

Tips for the Best Fish Soup Recipe

• Use fresh fish for optimal flavor. Frozen works too, just thaw and pat dry.
• Don’t overcook the fish. Add it last and simmer gently.
• Homemade broth = extra flavor and nutrients. Try making your own fish stock or use quality store-bought options.
• Finish with lemon to brighten the flavors and balance richness.
• Add greens like spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes for a veggie boost.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Even the easiest fish soup recipe can go wrong. Avoid these:

• Overcooking the fish: It should be tender and flaky, not rubbery.
• Boiling the broth after fish is added: Simmer on low to preserve texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Soup needs generous seasoning—taste before serving.
• Skipping aromatics: Onion, garlic, and celery form the flavorful base.

Need a veggie-rich side? Try these Healthy Smashed Carrots — they’re easy and family-approved.

How to Serve Nourishing Fish Soup

This soup shines as a light main course or a comforting appetizer. Try serving it with:

• Fresh bread or Cottage Cheese Flatbread
• Slices of avocado or a dollop of yogurt
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Pumpkin Chicken Chili for a warming fall meal combo

For breakfast-for-dinner vibes, consider pairing with Mini Pancake Cereal or Strawberry Protein Pancakes.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This soup is meal prep–friendly and stores well.

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight glass container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid boiling to preserve the fish’s texture.
• Add herbs and lemon after reheating for the freshest flavor.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

You can easily tweak this recipe based on what you have or dietary needs:

• Halibut Soup: Use halibut exclusively for a meatier texture.
• Fish Head Soup: Use the fish head to make a collagen-rich broth before assembling the soup.
• Asian-Inspired: Add fresh ginger, miso paste, and bok choy.
• Mediterranean Style: Stir in olives, tomatoes, and oregano.
• Low-Carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini.
• More Protein: Add cooked shrimp like in this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp.

Want more vegetarian options? Check out this delicious Vegetarian Pasta Primavera.

What to Serve With Fish Soup

Complete the meal with these perfect pairings:

• Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon
• Cucumber Shrimp Salad
• Pumpkin Twists as a savory side
• Fruit Dip or Apple Crisp for dessert

If you’re meal prepping, consider storing servings alongside Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches for the week.

Save

FAQs About Nourishing Fish Soup

Can I use frozen fish?
Yes! Thaw it fully and dry before adding it to the soup.

What fish works best in fish soup?
White fish like halibut, cod, haddock, or sea bass.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge or freezer. Reheat gently.

What if I don’t have fish broth?
You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a splash of lemon.

Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild flavor and soft texture make it great for little ones.

Final Thoughts

This nourishing fish soup delivers all the benefits of a homemade, nutrient-rich meal without the time-consuming prep. It’s a clean, simple, satisfying bowl of comfort food that you can enjoy all year round. Whether you’re under the weather, need a light dinner, or just want to warm up on a cold night, this easy fish soup recipe will become a beloved staple.

Looking for more cozy, gut-friendly meals? Try this Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal or browse all our Dinner Recipes.

Print