Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 lb. tomatoes, seeded and chopped, about 3 medium, OR 1 16-oz. can chopped tomatoes
  • 6 c. chicken stock or broth
  • 1 c. small cauliflower florets
  • 1 lg. zucchini, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1/4 lb. green beans, trimmed and cut into 1/4 inch pieces
  • 1 c. cooked cannellini beans
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil
  • Parmesan cheese, grated

Method

  • In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat.
  • Add carrots, onion, celery and garlic.
  • Cook, stirring often, 3-5 minutes or until onion is softened.
  • Stir in the tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Pour in broth and increase heat to high; bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often, or until reduced.
  • In a separate saucepan, cook cauliflower, zucchini and green beans in boiling salted water.
  • As soon as the water returns to a boil, drain vegetables.
  • Add vegetables and cannellini beans to the soup; season with salt and pepper.
  • Simmer for 10 minutes, or until vegetables are just tender.
  • Stir in the basil and ladle into bowls.
  • Serve with a dish of freshly grated Parmesan to sprinkle on top.