Hearty Vegetable Soup 🥕🍲

This delightful Hearty Vegetable Soup is the perfect dish for chilly days or as a nourishing meal any time of year. Packed with flavors and vibrant colors, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly healthy. You can customize the vegetables according to your taste and what you have on hand. Serve it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of parmesan for a complete meal! 🍞🧀

Ingredients

For the soup base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the garnishes

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Add the hearty veggies: Toss in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften, stirring occasionally.

3. Incorporate the rest: Add the zucchini, green beans, and cauliflower to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes along with their juice. Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Taste and adjust: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like a bit more acidity, squeeze a little lemon juice into the pot.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges and parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

🥄 Don’t be afraid to add or substitute any seasonal vegetables you have! Potatoes, squash, or leafy greens like spinach and kale can make this soup even heartier.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat. 🌶️
• Protein Boost: Include a can of drained chickpeas or cooked lentils for added protein and texture.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end for a creamier soup. 🥥
• Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach!

Enjoy your Hearty Vegetable Soup, a bowl full of warmth and nourishment! 🍲❤️