Vegetable Soup

Here’s a hearty and flavorful vegetable soup recipe that’s perfect for a comforting meal!

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or more as needed)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Stir in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
   • Add the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.
4. Simmer:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. If adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy hot!

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or any leftovers you have.
• This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and also freezes well.

Enjoy your delicious vegetable soup!