Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic.
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

  1. Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes.
  2. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
  3. Add the zucchini, green beans, and diced tomatoes, and mix well.

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasoning

  1. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the tomato paste until fully dissolved.
  2. Add the bay leaf, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

  1. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
  2. Let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Greens

  1. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  2. Allow the greens to wilt into the soup, adding a burst of freshness and nutrition.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

  1. Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
  2. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
  2. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
  3. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup

  1. Choose Seasonal Vegetables: Use whatever vegetables are fresh and in season for the best flavor and variety.
  2. Make It Heartier: Add cooked beans (like cannellini or chickpeas), barley, or small pasta for a more filling meal.
  3. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  4. Meal Prep-Friendly: This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months for quick and healthy meals.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it’s a great way to nourish your body.
  • Customizable: You can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs by adding protein, grains, or different herbs.
  • Easy to Make: Requires only one pot and minimal cooking skills.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients, making it ideal for any household.

Conclusion

This hearty vegetable soup is a timeless recipe that brings warmth, nutrition, and comfort to your table. It’s a dish that invites creativity while honoring the simplicity of wholesome ingredients. Perfect for any season, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors in every spoonful!