Vegetable Soup

 Here's a simple and hearty Vegetable Soup recipe:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, diced

2-3 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup green beans, chopped

1 cup potatoes, diced (optional)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1-2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the zucchini, green beans, potatoes (if using), canned tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Add Greens and Peas: If using spinach, kale, or peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

7. Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread or a 

side salad.

Enjoy your warm, comforting vegetable soup!