This Zucchini Soup is a simple, healthy, and delicious lunch option. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this soup will warm you up and keep you satisfied.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1.5 liters of vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 red sweet pepper, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 100 grams of peas
- 1 can of white beans, drained and rinsed
- 60 grams of good pasta
- Salt, to taste
- Dried thyme, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
Directions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Vegetables:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the chopped red sweet pepper, tomato, zucchini, peas, and white beans to the pot.
- Stir in the pasta.
- Simmer for 10 minutes or until the vegetables and pasta are cooked through.
- Season the Soup:
- Add salt and dried thyme to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions: Serve this zucchini soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Feel free to use any type of pasta you like, such as small shells or ditalini.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in vitamins and fiber from the vegetables.
- Provides protein from the beans.
- Low in calories and a great addition to a balanced diet.
Dietary Information:
- This soup is vegetarian.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- Light yet satisfying, perfect for a healthy lunch.
- Packed with fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
Conclusion: This Easy and Healthy Zucchini Soup is a fantastic option for a nutritious and delicious meal. Simple to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let me know in the comments if you liked this recipe!