Vegetable soup

Colorful and tasty vegetable soup is a summer recipe that combines the freshness of vegetables with a rich and comforting flavor. A soup that will not only warm your soul but will also add a splash of color to your plate. This recipe is perfect for hot days when we crave something light yet filling. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to seasonal vegetables or personal preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Basic ingredients:

- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 2 small zucchinis
- 2 large carrots
- 1 cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bell pepper (red or green)
- 2 tomatoes (or 200 ml of tomato juice)
- 200 g of green beans
- 1 small leek
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon (or lemon salt, to taste)
- A handful of fresh lovage (chopped)
- A handful of fresh basil (chopped)

Preparing the vegetable soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables under cold running water. Peel the potatoes, carrots, and zucchinis, then cut them into small cubes. Slice the onion julienne, and dice the bell pepper. Cut the leek into rounds, and you can either quarter the tomatoes or use them whole if opting for tomato juice.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Fill a large pot with cold water and add all the chopped vegetables. Place the pot over medium heat and let the vegetables boil. It is essential to start with cold water, as this will help the vegetables retain their crunchy texture and not turn into mush.

3. Sautéing the onion: In a separate pan, add the olive oil and sauté the onion over low heat until it becomes translucent. This process will intensify the onion's aroma and add extra flavor to the soup. If desired, you can also add a few slices of bacon to the pan for a richer taste (this is an optional variant for those not on a vegetarian diet).

4. Adding the onion to the soup: Once the onion is sautéed, add it to the pot with vegetables. Let everything boil for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Finishing the soup: After the vegetables are cooked, add the salt and tomato juice. Mix well and bring everything to a boil. If you want to add pasta or rice, now is the time to do so (about one or two tablespoons, depending on preference). Let everything boil together until the pasta or rice is cooked (about 8-10 minutes).

6. Seasoning the soup: Once the pasta is ready, taste the soup and add the lemon juice or lemon salt, as desired. Then, turn off the heat and add the pepper, lovage, and chopped basil. Mix well to combine the flavors.

7. Serving: The vegetable soup is served hot and can be garnished with grated parmesan or even a few fresh lovage leaves for a more attractive appearance. A delicious alternative would be to add crunchy croutons for an interesting texture.

Nutritional details and benefits: This soup is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber due to the variety of vegetables used. It is also low in calories, making it perfect for a balanced diet. A serving of vegetable soup can contain about 150-200 calories, depending on the added ingredients.

Variations and tips:
- You can add a sweet potato to provide a sweeter taste and vibrant color.
- If you like spicy flavors, feel free to add a few slices of hot pepper.
- Instead of pasta, you can use quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.
- If you prefer a heartier soup, you can add chicken or turkey at the beginning of the cooking process.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent option and can be added directly to the pot without thawing.
- What type of oil should I use? Olive oil is ideal, but you can also use sunflower or canola oil.
- How long does the soup keep? The vegetable soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in airtight containers.

This vegetable soup recipe is not only a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as a main course, your soup will surely be a hit. Enjoy!