How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup for Dinner
Italian vegetable soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this recipe will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Here’s a simple guide on how to make Italian vegetable soup at home.
Ingredients You'll Need
To create this wholesome Italian vegetable soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Italian vegetable soup:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Add the Vegetables
Stir in the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Incorporate the Broth and Tomatoes
Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the vegetable broth to the pot. Mix well to combine.
4. Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes.
5. Finish with Green Vegetables
Stir in the chopped green beans and spinach (or kale). Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the green beans are tender and the spinach has wilted.
6. Adjust Seasoning
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Your Italian vegetable soup is now ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Enjoy this healthy and hearty Italian vegetable soup for a satisfying dinner that is both delicious and easy to prepare!