Hearty Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetable Soup

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add the remaining ingredients: Add the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, and cannellini beans. Season with dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer the soup: Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If using, add the fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking to wilt.
6. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 2: Make the Aromatic Croutons

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the bread: In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Bake the croutons: Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, tossing halfway through for even browning.

Step 3: Serve

1. Ladle the soup: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls.
2. Top with croutons: Generously sprinkle the aromatic croutons on top of each bowl of soup for added texture and flavor.
3. Garnish: Finish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for the Best Hearty Vegetable Soup

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Potatoes, corn, or peas are great additions.
• Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best results.
• Make It a Meal: To make the soup even heartier, serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen over time!

Serving Suggestions

• Accompaniments: Pair your hearty vegetable soup with a simple green salad or a slice of homemade bread for a satisfying meal.
• Extra Toppings: Consider adding grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added layer of flavor.
• Meal Prep: This soup is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Conclusion

Hearty Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons is a comforting dish that warms the soul and nourishes the body. With its colorful array of vegetables and crispy croutons, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish to share with loved ones, this soup is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of cooking, and indulge in a bowl of this hearty delight!