Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Having everything prepped in advance will make the cooking process smoother.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, taking care not to burn it.

3. Add the Root Vegetables

  • Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot.
  • Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes to enhance their flavors.
  • Season with thyme, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

4. Build the Broth

  • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices.
  • Stir to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer the Soup

  • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld.

6. Add the Final Vegetables

  • Stir in the diced zucchini and green beans, and let them simmer for another 10 minutes until tender.
  • Add the fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve their vibrant color and nutrients.

7. Taste and Adjust

  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and stir in fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.

8. Prepare the Parmesan Toasts

While the soup simmers, prepare the Parmesan toasts:

  • Preheat your oven or broiler to 400°F (200°C).
  • Spread the softened butter evenly over the bread slices.
  • Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on each slice. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning if desired.
  • Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

9. Serve and Enjoy

  • Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls.
  • Serve with the Parmesan toasts on the side or float one on top of the soup for a delightful presentation.
  • Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

  1. Customize the Vegetables: Use what you have on hand. Squash, sweet potatoes, peas, or corn can be excellent additions.
  2. Add Protein: To make the soup more filling, add chickpeas, lentils, or small pasta.
  3. Enhance Flavor: A splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil at the end adds brightness.