Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and creating a base for the soup.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives a robust aroma and flavor to the soup.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped: Carrots add sweetness and color to the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Celery enhances the soup’s texture and adds a fresh, herbal taste.
- 1 zucchini, chopped: Zucchini gives the soup a light, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds tanginess and helps create a rich, flavorful broth.
- 1 cup baby spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a healthy dose of vitamins.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini beans or great northern beans), drained and rinsed: White beans are a hearty addition that adds protein and texture to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme brings a fragrant, herbal flavor that complements the vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano adds a slightly peppery, earthy note to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil contributes a subtle sweetness and aromatic complexity to the soup.
- 1 bay leaf: A bay leaf infuses the soup with a deep, earthy flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: The base of the soup, providing a savory, rich flavor without meat-based ingredients.
- 1 cup coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor that balances the savory elements of the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that help bring out all the flavors in the soup.
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil: For a fresh, herbal finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese: For an extra layer of flavor and richness (ensure it’s Halal-certified if you’re using dairy).
- Crusty bread: For dipping, serving alongside the soup.
Instructions
FIRST STEP: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: Add the minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add the chopped zucchini and diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
SECOND STEP: Simmer the Soup
- Add the Herbs: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Stir the spices into the vegetables, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the pot.
- Add the Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once the broth is added, add the white beans, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes. This allows the vegetables to fully soften and the flavors to meld together.
THIRD STEP: Add the Spinach and Coconut Milk
- Stir in the Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the pot, stirring it in until it wilts. The spinach will add a lovely color to the soup while boosting its nutritional value.
- Add the Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir until the soup becomes rich and creamy. The coconut milk will balance the savory elements and add a smooth texture to the broth.
- Simmer for 5-10 More Minutes: Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors come together and the broth to thicken slightly.
FINAL STEP: Season and Serve
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preference, keeping in mind that the broth should be savory and flavorful.
- Remove the Bay Leaf: Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. You can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or vegan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 1hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 7g