– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into small pieces
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Creating Chunky Italian Vegetable Soup is a delightful endeavor if you follow these straightforward steps:
1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften slightly.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, along with the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Season the Soup: Once it reaches a boil, lower the heat and add the cannellini beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Check Consistency: After 20 minutes, check to see if the vegetables are tender. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can continue to simmer, allowing some moisture to evaporate.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup, adjusting seasoning as necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
8. Garnish: Once ready, remove from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
9. Serve Warm: Ensure the soup is served hot for the best flavor and experience.
These steps ensure you can effortlessly create this incredible soup that will surely impress family and friends alike.