Healthy Vegetable Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. Heat the Olive Oil:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add Carrots and Celery:
   • Stir in the sliced carrots and chopped celery, cooking for another 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften.

2. Add Remaining Vegetables and Broth:

4. Add Zucchini, Squash, and Green Beans:
   • Toss in the diced zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and green beans. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in Tomatoes and Broth:
   • Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir in the thyme, oregano, cumin (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Simmer the Soup:

6. Bring to a Boil:
   • Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil.
7. Simmer:
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

4. Add Spinach and Lemon:

8. Add Spinach:
   • Stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Allow it to wilt into the soup.
9. Finish with Lemon Juice:
   • Remove the soup from heat and squeeze in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor.

5. Serve and Garnish:

10. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
    • Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
11. Garnish and Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or enjoy on its own for a light, healthy meal.

Tips for Success:

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like sweet potatoes, cabbage, peas, or mushrooms based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
• Boost Protein: For a more filling meal, you can add in chickpeas, lentils, or tofu.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

This Healthy Vegetable Soup is not only delicious and filling, but it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of lemon creates a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. It’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner!