Hearty Vegetable Soup with Crispy Ricotta Bread

That sounds like a wonderfully comforting and satisfying meal! Here’s a complete concept and recipe for Hearty Vegetable Soup with Crispy Ricotta Bread—perfect for a wholesome, delicious lunch:

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🥣 Hearty Vegetable Soup with Crispy Ricotta Bread

⭐ Why You’ll Love It:

• Packed with seasonal vegetables and rich in flavor
• Vegetarian and full of nutrients
• Paired with golden, crispy ricotta-topped bread for a creamy, crunchy contrast
• Perfect for meal prep or cozy weekend lunches

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🥕 Hearty Vegetable Soup

🧄 INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 small sweet potato, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) cannellini beans or chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, fresh herbs (parsley, basil)

🍲 INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add carrots, celery, zucchini, and sweet potato. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the tomatoes, beans, broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until veggies are tender.
5. Stir in kale/spinach and simmer for 5 more minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
6. Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

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🍞 Crispy Ricotta Bread

🧀 INGREDIENTS:

• 4 slices crusty sourdough or rustic bread
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• Salt & pepper
• Fresh herbs: thyme, parsley, or basil
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

🔥 INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Lightly toast the bread slices in the oven or a toaster.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta with lemon zest, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
4. Rub the toasted bread with the cut side of the garlic clove.
5. Spread a generous layer of ricotta mixture on each slice.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan if using.
7. Bake on a baking sheet for 7–10 minutes until golden and crispy.

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🥄 Serving Suggestion:

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs or a swirl of olive oil. Serve with a side of crispy ricotta bread for dipping—comfort food at its best!