Legume-Based Soups

 

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Here’s your ingredient list for this big bowl of comfort. This version is full of classic veggies, but feel free to add your own favorites!

• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (to get that nice sautéed base)

• Onion – 1 medium, diced (yellow or white, your choice)

• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced (for that extra flavor kick)

• Carrots – 2 medium, peeled and sliced

• Celery – 2 stalks, diced

• Potato – 1 medium, diced (Yukon Golds are nice for texture)

• Green Beans – 1 cup, chopped

• Zucchini – 1 medium, diced

• Diced Tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz) with juice (fire-roasted, if you can find them)

• Vegetable Broth – 4 cups (low-sodium is best)

• Bay Leaf – 1

• Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon

• Salt and Pepper – to taste

• Spinach or Kale – 1 cup, chopped (optional but adds a nice green touch)

• Parsley or Fresh Herbs – for garnish

  Step-By-Step Guide: Let’s Make This Soup Happen!

  Step 1: Chop Up Those Veggies
  This is where you prep everything, so grab your chopping board and dice your onion, carrots, celery, potatoes, and zucchini. Chop the green beans and mince the garlic. Having everything ready is a huge help once you start cooking.

  Step 2: Start with the Aromatics
  In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add your onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent and the carrots and celery start to soften up. Add the garlic and stir for another minute, just until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma.

  Step 3: Toss in the Veggies and Spices
  Now add in your diced potatoes, green beans, and zucchini. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to make sure the veggies are coated with the spices. Let these cook for just a couple of minutes so the flavors can start mingling.

  Step 4: Add Broth and Bring to a Simmer
  Pour in your vegetable broth and toss in the bay leaf. Turn the heat up to medium-high to bring everything to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This is where the magic happens – your veggies will get perfectly tender and the broth will absorb all those flavors.

  Step 5: Add Leafy Greens (Optional)
  If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir it in about 5 minutes before the soup is done. It’ll wilt down quickly and add a beautiful pop of green.

  Step 6: Taste and Adjust
  Once your veggies are tender, give the soup a taste. Need a bit more salt? A crack of pepper? Now’s the time to adjust!

  Serving Suggestions

  Scoop the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or whatever fresh herbs you have on hand. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness. Serve it with a crusty slice of bread, a grilled cheese, or even a simple side salad. This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own but pairs perfectly with just about anything!
  Extra Tips for Perfect Veggie Soup

  1. Add a Little Tang: A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors and give the soup some zing.

  2. Give It a Creamy Twist: For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. It adds thickness without losing the veggie chunks.

  3. Spice Things Up: If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

  4. Add Protein: Toss in a can of chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture.
  Wrap-Up: A Hearty Bowl for All Seasons

  1. And there you have it – a cozy, nutritious vegetable soup that’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to warm you up. This dish is perfect for meal-prepping, serving as a side, or enjoying on its own. And here’s a fun fact: the Italians call a similar version “minestrone,” but there’s really no right or wrong way to make it! So don’t be afraid to experiment – add your own favorite veggies, try different herbs, and make it your own.

  2. Whether you’re in need of comfort, a healthy boost, or just a delicious meal, this vegetable soup has you covered. So grab a spoon, curl up, and enjoy every warming bite! 🥣
  
  

  Tips: 

  1. Customizations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers.

  2. Protein Additions: Add beans, lentils, or tofu for more protein.

  3. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.