Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. Add the Vegetables
- Once the aromatics are softened, add the diced zucchini, chopped bell pepper, and cabbage to the pot. Stir to combine the vegetables.
- Season with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the vegetables cook for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer) and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Stir in the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once the soup is bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
4. Simmer the Soup
- Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the vegetables to become tender. Stir occasionally.
- After about 15 minutes, add the chopped green beans. This helps to keep them crisp yet tender.
5. Adjust Seasonings
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Tips for Success:
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add or swap vegetables depending on what you have on hand. Potatoes, spinach, kale, or corn would make excellent additions.
- Broth options: If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth. For a vegan version, stick to vegetable broth.
- Boost the protein: To make this soup more filling, consider adding chickpeas, white beans, or lentils.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
ENJOY IT
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