Vegetable Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 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
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the garlic and minced chili pepper (if using), cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the leeks, celery, carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings:
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme and basil.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Enjoy your comforting and healthy vegetable soup!