ADVERTISEMENT
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Veggies:**
– In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
2. **Add the Potatoes and Zucchini:**
– Toss in the cubed potatoes and sliced zucchini. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. This helps to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
3. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:**
– Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with the juice) and the chicken (or vegetable) broth. Stir in the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. **Add Protein (if using):**
– If you’re adding shredded chicken or white beans for protein, stir them in now and let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
5. **Taste and Adjust:**
– Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
6. **Serve and Garnish:**
– Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.
7. **Enjoy!**
– Serve this warm, comforting soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for the perfect meal. It’s light yet hearty, and the perfect balance of vegetables and flavors will have you coming back for more.
#### **Why You’ll Love This Soup:**
– **Quick and Easy:** This soup takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time.
– **Comfort in Every Bite:** With hearty vegetables, savory broth, and a burst of flavor from the herbs, this soup is the definition of comfort food.
– **Customizable:** You can easily swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand, or change up the protein to suit your preferences. Add some spinach or kale for extra greens, or throw in some pasta for a heartier dish.
– **Perfect for Leftovers:** This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it whenever the craving strikes.
– **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with vegetables, this soup is a great way to get your daily servings of fiber and vitamins. You can also make it lighter by leaving out the protein or using a low-sodium broth.
#### **Variations to Try:**
– **Creamy Version:** For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. You can also puree part of the soup for a thicker consistency.
– **Spicy Kick:** Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some extra heat, or drizzle with hot sauce just before serving.
– **Loaded with Greens:** Add in some fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking to boost the nutrition and color of the soup.
#### **Conclusion:**
This soup is the ultimate blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. It’s a recipe that’s so satisfying, you’ll find yourself wanting to make it again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a quick meal for yourself, this 30-minute soup is the perfect solution. Easy to customize, healthy, and delicious, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a soup that will warm your soul and leave you craving more!
ADVERTISEMENT
