1. Sauté the Base Vegetables:
- Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Add Remaining Vegetables:
- Include Potatoes, Zucchini, and Green Beans: Add the potatoes, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes.
3. Simmer the Soup:
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the bay leaf and dried thyme.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. For a spicy version, include some red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Leafy Greens and Final Seasonings:
- Add Greens: If using spinach or kale, add it to the pot in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
5. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup:
- Use Fresh and Seasonal Vegetables: For the best flavor, use fresh, seasonal vegetables. This not only enhances the taste but also ensures you’re getting the most nutrition.
- Soup Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree a small portion of the soup and stir it back in to thicken the overall texture.
- Storage: Vegetable soup stores well. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for meal prepping.
This vegetable soup is a wonderful way to warm up on a cold day and is versatile enough to fit any dietary preferences. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal that will keep you and your family feeling full and content. Enjoy this delightful soup that brings the best of health and taste to your table!