Hearty Vegetable Soup

Hearty Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 cup spinach or kale
½ cup small pasta or rice (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
   Add onion, carrots, and celery.
   Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
   Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Build the Soup
   Add:
   zucchini
   broccoli
   cauliflower
   bell pepper
   diced tomatoes
   vegetable broth
   Italian seasoning
   paprika
   Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer
   Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Add Final Ingredients
   Stir in green beans, spinach, and pasta or rice if using.
   Cook another 8–10 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Season and Serve
   Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
   Garnish with fresh parsley.
   Optional Add-Ins
   Shredded chicken
   White beans or chickpeas
   Parmesan cheese
   Red pepper flakes for heat
   Serving Suggestions
   Serve hot with:
   Crusty bread
   Garlic toast
   Grilled cheese sandwiches
   Fresh salad