Italian Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 cups of chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup of small pasta (optional)
• 2 cups of chopped mixed vegetables (such as green beans, corn, and peas)
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomatoes and broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
5. If you are using pasta, add it to the pot and cook according to package instructions.
6. Stir in the mixed vegetables, basil, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with some crusty bread.