Vegetable Soup Recipe

ngredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 leeks, chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 chili pepper, minced (optional, for spice)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or enough to cover the vegetables)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables as described.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the leeks, celery, carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, add the bay leaf, and sprinkle in the dried thyme. If you’re using chili pepper for extra heat, add it now. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
6. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
8. Enjoy: This soup can be enjoyed hot and is perfect for any time of the day!

Feel free to customize with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste!