Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup – A Delicious & Nutritious Delight!

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Soup is a splendid heartwarming option, especially in the colder months, but it’s equally delicious all year round. Today, I’m sharing my favorite vegetable soup recipe – a hearty, wholesome, nutrition-packed delight that promises to soothe your soul while tickling your taste buds!

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 cup green beans, chopped
– 2 cups broccoli, cut into florets
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt & pepper to taste
– 2 cups chopped spinach
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

Directions:

1. Start by slicking your large pot with olive oil and place it over medium heat. As it shimmers, add your onions, stirring them until they become translucent (about 5 minutes).

2. Next, add the minced garlic and continue stirring for about 30 seconds. Stir in the diced carrots and celery and sauté until they slightly soften (about 5 minutes).

3. Now’s the time to add your diced zucchini, bell pepper, peas, green beans, and broccoli. Stir to combine all the fresh vegetables well and cook for around 5 more minutes.

4. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (juice included), and your spices – basil, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and allow the soup to come to a gentle boil.

5. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Check whether the vegetables have softened according to your preference.

6. Now, you toss in the chopped spinach and the rinsed cannellini beans. Stir and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the beans to heat thoroughly.

7. Check your soup’s seasoning, adding as needed, and then remove the bay leaf. Your hearty homemade vegetable soup is ready to serve!

This delicious vegetable soup is not only a mosaic of vibrant colors but also a bowl full of essential nutrients. It’s versatile – feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables and beans. Serve it up with a chunk of crusty bread or a side salad for a fulfilling, nutritious meal. Enjoy!

Remember: the best recipes are those you share with your loved ones. So stir up a pot of this tasty soup and savor its goodness with your family and friends. Happy cooking!

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