Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup

Introduction

Warm, comforting, and brimming with goodness, this homemade vegetable soup is the perfect way to nourish your body and soul. Packed with a rainbow of vegetables and aromatic herbs, it's a wholesome dish that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

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Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled and sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

8 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup small pasta (such as macaroni or small shells)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.

Add the Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, and corn to the pot. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Add the dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.

Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

Add Pasta: Stir in the small pasta and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al dente and cooked through.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf.

Serve: Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy: Serve your homemade vegetable soup with some crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.

This vegetable soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It's a great way to use up leftover veggies from your fridge and enjoy a warm and nutritious meal. So, ladle up, savor the flavors, and enjoy this bowl of comfort on any chilly day.