Basic Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can red beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Directions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and lightly browned.
2. Add the salt, pepper, oregano, and basil and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the vegetable broth, tomatoes, black beans, red beans, and white beans. Decrease the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
5. Serve hot.

Interesting Facts

• Beans are one of the oldest cultivated crops.
• Beans are a great source of protein and fiber.
• Bean soups are a great way to use up leftovers.