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Busy Day Soup

A quick and hearty soup perfect for busy nights that combines rich flavors and easy-to-find ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups diced carrots
  • 2 cups diced celery
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cooked pasta optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Let them cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice.
  5. Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot and stir everything together.
  6. Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
  8. If you're using cooked pasta, stir it in just before serving.

Notes

For extra depth, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving.