Hearty Vegetable Soup

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 potato, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if preferred)
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   • Add the diced zucchini, potato, bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir for a couple of minutes.
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Add thyme and basil. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   • Cover and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add Peas, Corn, and Greens:
   • Add the frozen peas, corn, and spinach or kale (if using).
   • Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and all vegetables are tender.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve warm, and enjoy with a side of crusty bread, if desired.

This soup is both nourishing and filling, making it an ideal option for a cozy meal. Enjoy the flavors of fresh vegetables in every spoonful!