Hearty Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons 🥣✨

“A Wholesome and Flavorful Meal Perfect for Any Season!”

This Hearty Vegetable Soup is packed with vibrant, nourishing vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. Topped with golden, crunchy homemade croutons, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a light snack.

Ingredients

For the Vegetable Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup spinach or kale leaves, chopped

For the Homemade Croutons:

• 4 slices of bread (day-old bread works great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Hearty Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth

1. Add the zucchini, potato, green beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
2. Pour in the broth, then stir in the thyme, basil, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add Greens and Finish

1. Stir in the spinach or kale and simmer for another 5 minutes until wilted.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Make the Croutons

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy, tossing halfway through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the homemade croutons.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fresh vegetables and leafy greens.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Perfect for a wholesome meal or light dinner.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, beans, or grains for variety.
• Crunchy Croutons: The homemade croutons add a delightful texture and flavor boost.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Make It Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
2. Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread works best for crispy croutons.
3. Freezer-Friendly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

This Hearty Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to warm your heart and soul. Serve it as a standalone meal or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete feast. 🥣✨ Enjoy!