Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
2. Bring the soup to a boil for 10 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30–45 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Makes 2 large soups or 3 appetizer size soups

Notes: 

• Salt: I omit salt because I feel the soup is already well-seasoned. If you’re making it for your family and prefer a salt-free option for yourself, serve the soup unsalted and season individual portions as desired.
• Bay Leaf: The bay leaf is essential for enhancing the soup’s flavor. If possible, do not omit.