Easy Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup celery, thinly sliced
1 can of tomatoes, diced, with juice
3 onions, chopped
2 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning
3 cans of vegetable or chicken stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
8 cups mixed fresh or frozen vegetables, such as carrots, corn, green beans, peas, potatoes (cut larger vegetables into smaller pieces)
Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. In a large stockpot, heat oil over medium heat.

2. Add the onions, celery, and Italian herbs, and then cook while stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent. This should take around 5 to 8 minutes.

3. Add the stock, tomatoes and their juice, tomato paste, and 3 cups water to the pot.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce heat to a simmer, and cook, uncovered, for 20 minutes.

5. Add the rest of the vegetables to the pot, and simmer, uncovered, until they are all tender. This should take approximately 20 to 25 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper, as desired. Serve hot, or let it cool before storing.