Hearty Winter Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 small turnip, peeled and diced (optional)
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Chop and dice all the vegetables (onion, garlic, carrots, celery, turnip, sweet potato, and butternut squash) into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables:

   • Stir in the carrots, celery, turnip, sweet potato, and butternut squash. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:

   • Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer the Soup:

   • Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Add Greens and Beans:

   • Add the chopped kale or spinach and the cannellini beans (if using). Stir well and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the greens are wilted and the beans are heated through.

7. Final Adjustments:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

8. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Optional Variations:

• Protein: Add cooked chicken, beef, or sausage for extra protein.
• Grains: Stir in cooked rice, barley, or quinoa for a heartier soup.
• Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.

This soup is hearty, healthy, and perfect for warming up during the winter months. Enjoy your meal!