Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Toasts: A Wholesome Comfort Meal


There’s nothing like a bowl of Hearty Vegetable Soup paired with crispy, cheesy Parmesan toasts to bring warmth and nourishment to your table. This classic recipe combines an array of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. The Parmesan toasts add a delightful crunch and cheesy richness that takes the meal to the next level. Let’s explore how to make this comforting dish step by step.

Ingredients

For the soup:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
  • 2 celery stalks (diced)
  • 1 large potato (peeled and cubed)
  • 1 zucchini (diced)
  • 1 cup (150 g) green beans (trimmed and chopped)
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach or kale (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Parmesan toasts:

  • 4 slices of crusty bread (like baguette or sourdough)
  • 2 tbsp butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Vegetables