Spring Italian Vegetable and Bean Soup
This Italian-inspired vegetable and bean soup is a delight for spring evenings. It's packed with fresh vegetables and hearty beans, making it both nutritious and satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a great option for beginner cooks looking to enjoy a healthy homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup canned cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the rinsed cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and dried Italian herbs. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.