Grandma’s Year-Round Comfort Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or a few fresh sprigs)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut)
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the hearty vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, potatoes, and zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
3. Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Finish with greens: Add the green beans and peas in the last 5-7 minutes of cooking. Simmer until they are tender but still vibrant in color.
5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf, adjust the seasoning, and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright touch. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tip from Grandma: You can switch up the veggies based on the season! In winter, add parsnips and squash, or in summer, toss in fresh corn or bell peppers.

Enjoy this soup that feels like a warm hug from your grandma—perfect for any seaso