Hearty Vegetable Soup with Crispy Ricotta Bread: A Wholesome and Delicious Lunch
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of comforting soup on a cool day — and this Hearty Vegetable Soup with Crispy Ricotta Bread is the perfect combination of nourishment and indulgence. Packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a flavorful broth, it’s a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Pair it with golden, crispy ricotta-topped bread, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch (or light dinner) that’s both wholesome and utterly delicious.
🥣 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Loaded with nutrients: A rainbow of vegetables makes this soup hearty and healthy.
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Comfort food made easy: Simple ingredients, big flavors.
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Perfect pairing: The crispy ricotta bread adds texture and creaminess.
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Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day!
🧄 Ingredients
For the Hearty Vegetable Soup:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, peeled and sliced
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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1 zucchini, diced
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
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1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
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4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 cup baby spinach or kale (optional)
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Crispy Ricotta Bread:
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4 slices crusty bread (like sourdough or ciabatta)
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes
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Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, or parsley) for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Start the soup
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
2. Add the hearty vegetables
Stir in carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening and developing flavor.
3. Simmer the soup
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Finish with greens and lemon
Stir in spinach or kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until wilted. Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
🍞 Make the Crispy Ricotta Bread
1. Toast the bread
Preheat your oven (or toaster oven) to 400°F (200°C). Brush each bread slice with olive oil and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
2. Add the ricotta topping
Spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese over the warm bread. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes. For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit more olive oil and top with fresh herbs.
3. Optional: Broil for extra crispiness
Place the ricotta-topped bread under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden on top.
🥄 Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls and serve with the crispy ricotta bread on the side. Dip, scoop, or enjoy separately — every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction.
🌿 Tips & Variations
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Add protein: Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken.
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Make it creamy: Blend half of the soup for a thicker texture.
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Add grains: Toss in cooked quinoa, barley, or pasta for extra heartiness.
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Make it dairy-free: Top your bread with mashed avocado or vegan ricotta instead.
🍽️ Perfect for Any Season
Whether it’s a cold winter day or a breezy spring afternoon, this Hearty Vegetable Soup with Crispy Ricotta Bread brings warmth and nourishment to your table. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to become a go-to favorite for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
💬 Final Thoughts
Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe is proof that with a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying. So next time you’re craving something cozy yet nutritious, ladle up a bowl of this hearty soup and enjoy it with that irresistible crispy ricotta bread — pure comfort in every bite.
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