Italian Vegetable Soup: A Hearty and Healthy Dish

Italian Vegetable Soup is a comforting and filling dish that is perfect for chilly days. Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful Italian herbs, this soup is not only delicious but also good for you. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a lighter option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. In just a short amount of time, you can enjoy a bowl of homemade Italian Vegetable Soup that will warm both your body and soul.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup small pasta, such as ditalini
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
5. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
8. Drain the pasta and set aside.
9. After 15 minutes, add the cooked pasta and chopped spinach to the pot.
10. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted.
11. Serve the Italian Vegetable Soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

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