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- 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced - 1 medium zucchini, diced - 1 red bell pepper, chopped - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces - 2 medium tomatoes, diced - 1 cup frozen peas - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Juice of 1 lemon - Salt and pepper to taste

Cozy Vegetable Soup with Cheesy Toasties

Warm up your dining experience with this Cozy Vegetable Soup paired with cheesy toasties, perfect for any season. This heartwarming recipe blends a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in rich broth, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal. The cheesy toasties add a delightful crunch and gooey goodness, making it an irresistible combination. Ideal for family gatherings or solo comfort, this dish will nourish your body and soul while inviting everyone to enjoy cozy moments around the table.
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Ingredients
  

For the Vegetable Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium carrot, diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

3 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes, drained)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup frozen peas

Juice of 1 lemon

For the Cheesy Toasties:

4 slices of crusty bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon butter, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.

    Add Remaining Veggies: Incorporate the diced carrot, zucchini, red bell pepper, and green beans into the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and release their flavors.

      Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced fresh tomatoes (or drained canned tomatoes) to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

        Finish the Soup: Stir in the frozen peas and squeeze the lemon juice into the pot. Mix well and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

          Prepare the Cheesy Toasties: While the soup simmers, preheat your broiler to high. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the garlic powder and mix until smooth. Generously spread this mixture onto one side of each slice of bread.

            Assemble Toasties: Place the buttered-side down on a baking sheet. Top each slice with a generous portion of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Broil the toasties for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

              Serve: Ladle the warm vegetable soup into bowls and serve hot alongside the cheesy toasties. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color, if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | 4 servings