Serves :8-10

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tbsp. coconut oil
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 5 carrots, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 4 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 oz. red wine (optional)
• 1 cup cooked kidney beans
• 2 cups green beans
• 2 cups baby spinach, rinsed
• 3 zucchinis, quartered and sliced
• 1 tbsp. chopped oregano
• 2 tbsp. chopped basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp. olive oil or cumin oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat coconut oil over medium heat in a stock pot, and sauté garlic for a few minutes.
2. Add chopped onions to the pot and continue sautéing for a few more minutes until the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in chopped celery and sliced carrots, and sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring frequently. If desired, add red wine at this point.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked kidney beans, quartered zucchinis, green beans, and rinsed baby spinach leaves.
6. Sprinkle in the chopped oregano and basil. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Allow the soup to simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Before serving, drizzle olive oil or cumin oil over the soup for added flavor and richness.

Enjoy your hearty and nutritious vegetable soup with the delightful combination of herbs and spices.

ALLERGIES:

SF (Shellfish-Free)

GF (Gluten-Free)

DF (Dairy-Free)

EF (Egg-Free)

NF (Nut-Free)

Here are some variations of the vegetable soup recipe:

1. Vegan Vegetable Soup: To make it completely plant-based, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the red wine (if using). You can also add some plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh.
2. Spicy Vegetable Soup: For those who enjoy a kick of spice, add a diced jalapeno or chili pepper to the sautéing vegetables. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add some crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
3. Creamy Vegetable Soup: For a creamy texture, stir in some coconut cream or cashew cream during the last few minutes of simmering. This will add richness and depth to the soup.
4. Mediterranean Vegetable Soup: Enhance the flavors with Mediterranean herbs and ingredients. Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a dash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
5. Thai-Inspired Vegetable Soup: Create a Thai-inspired version by adding coconut milk, lemongrass, and a spoonful of Thai red curry paste. Top it with fresh cilantro and lime juice for an authentic taste.
6. Hearty Minestrone Soup: Incorporate pasta or rice to make it a heartier minestrone-style soup. You can use small pasta shapes or rice and cook them in the soup until tender.
7. Chunky Vegetable Soup: If you prefer a chunkier texture, don’t blend the soup. Instead, chop the vegetables into larger pieces and simmer until tender.
8. Roasted Vegetable Soup: Before adding the vegetables to the pot, roast them in the oven for extra depth of flavor. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting.
9. Asian Vegetable Soup: Give it an Asian twist by adding sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and bok choy. Flavor it with soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil.
10. Greek-Style Vegetable Soup: Use Mediterranean vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, and black olives. Add some crumbled feta cheese on top for a burst of flavor.