Hearty Vegetable and White Bean Soup

Introduction:

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, nourishing soup to lift your spirits and satisfy your hunger. This Hearty Vegetable and White Bean Soup is packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner option or a hearty lunch, this soup will deliver on both nutrition and taste without compromising on comfort.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their juice
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
   • Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Season and Simmer:
   • Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the herbs are fragrant.
   • Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. Add Beans and Greens:
   • Add the white beans and spinach to the pot. Continue to simmer until the spinach is wilted and the beans are heated through, about 5 more minutes.
4. Final Touches:
   • Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls. Serve hot, with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Conclusion: This Hearty Vegetable and White Bean Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a meal that’s both satisfying and healthful. It’s ideal for those chilly days when you need something warming, or any day when you desire something packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to add or substitute ingredients based on what’s in season or already in your fridge.