There's something about a bowl of steaming, hearty rustic vegetable soup that just feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup is packed with colorful veggies and simple, wholesome goodness. It's the kind of meal that makes you feel nourished and satisfied without any fuss.
Olive oil forms the base, giving the soup a rich, smooth texture and helping to sauté the vegetables to perfection. Onion and garlic provide the aromatic foundation, adding depth and savoriness. The carrots and celery add a touch of sweetness and crunch, while the potato adds heartiness and helps thicken the soup slightly. Green beans and zucchini bring in fresh, vibrant flavors. A can of diced tomatoes with its juice contributes tanginess and richness. The vegetable broth ties everything together, with dried thyme and basil adding herbal notes. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish just before serving.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery roll. Add a simple side salad for a complete, wholesome meal. It's also delightful when topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
Start by heating up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Give them a stir and let them cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant — about 5 minutes should do the trick. Next, add in the carrots and celery. Keep stirring occasionally until they begin to soften, which should take another 5 minutes.
Now, it’s time to throw in the cubed potato. Keep stirring for about 5 minutes more, letting the potato absorb some of the flavors. Stir in the green beans, zucchini, and the can of diced tomatoes along with its juice. Everything should be looking colorful and vibrant at this point.
Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the dried thyme and basil. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
Season with salt and pepper to taste — don’t be shy to adjust it to your liking. Just before serving, stir in the fresh parsley for a touch of color and a burst of fresh flavor.