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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, zucchini, and green beans. Let everything cook for about 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- If using spinach or kale, add it to the soup in the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow the greens to wilt without losing their vibrant color.
2. Make the Parmesan Toasts:
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the Parmesan toasts. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the slices of bread on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with melted butter, making sure to coat the bread evenly.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over each slice of bread, followed by a light dusting of garlic powder.
- Toast the bread in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
3. Serve the Soup and Toasts:
- Once the soup is ready, give it a final taste check and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Top each bowl with a Parmesan toast or two, and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Toasts:
- Nutritious and Filling: This vegetable soup is packed with a variety of fresh, healthy ingredients that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s perfect for nourishing your body while satisfying your hunger.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of tender vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the richness of vegetable broth makes this soup a comforting meal for any occasion.
- Perfect Pairing with Parmesan Toasts: The crispy, cheesy toasts add the ideal crunch to balance the smooth texture of the soup. Each bite offers the perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Butternut squash, peas, or even mushrooms would work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and is even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep. The Parmesan toasts can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for a few days.
Tips for the Best Hearty Vegetable Soup:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, can really elevate the flavor of the soup. Add them at the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors.
- Blend for a Creamy Option: For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender before serving. This adds a velvety texture while still keeping some vegetable chunks.
- Top with Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan over the soup just before serving. You can even add some shredded mozzarella or provolone for an extra cheesy touch.
Final Thoughts:
Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Toasts is the perfect dish to enjoy on a cold evening or whenever you need a wholesome and comforting meal. It’s full of vibrant vegetables, robust flavors, and the irresistible crunch of cheesy toast. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a quiet evening alone, this soup is sure to bring warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of elegance to your table.
So next time you’re looking for a cozy meal, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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