BUTTER BEAN VEGGIE SOUP

Butter Bean Veggie Soup is a hearty and nourishing dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something wholesome and comforting. This soup is packed with tender butter beans, a variety of colorful vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that’s seasoned with herbs and spices. The creamy texture of the butter beans adds a satisfying richness to the soup, while the vegetables provide a fresh, vibrant contrast. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or a filling appetizer, Butter Bean Veggie Soup is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 (15 oz) can butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the remaining vegetables: Stir in the diced zucchini and red bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Simmer the soup: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, butter beans, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
4. Finish with greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
5. Serve: Ladle the Butter Bean Veggie Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Butter Bean Veggie Soup is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one comforting bowl. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s the perfect soup to warm you up and keep you nourished all year round.