🥣 Mediterranean Vegetable Soup (Full Recipe)

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3–4 carrots, sliced

• 2 potatoes, cubed

• 2–3 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 zucchini, chopped (optional)

• 1 tomato, chopped (or ½ cup canned diced tomatoes)

• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 6 cups vegetable broth (or water + bouillon)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1–2 bay leaves

• Fresh parsley for garnish

• Juice of ½ lemon (Mediterranean touch)

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Instructions

1. Sauté the base
   Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.

2. Add garlic & spices
   Stir in garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaves. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add potatoes & remaining vegetables
   Add potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell pepper (if using). Mix well.

4. Add broth
   Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.

5. Simmer
   Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until potatoes and carrots are tender.

6. Finish with Mediterranean flavor
   Add salt as needed. Stir in lemon juice for brightness.

7. Serve
   Garnish with fresh parsley.
   Enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.

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Mediterranean Tips

• Drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top before serving.

• Add chickpeas to make it more filling.

• Add paprika or chili flakes for warmth.

• Use fresh herbs (parsley, dill, basil) for extra flavor.