A warm and nourishing take on classic ratatouille, transformed into a chunky, wholefood soup with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
1 medium eggplant, diced
1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
1 carrot, chopped (optional)
1 celery stalk, chopped (optional)
4–5 cups vegetable broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp chopped fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Optional: 1 can chickpeas or white beans, drained
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes.
Add garlic, eggplant, and bell peppers. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in zucchini, tomatoes, salt, pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
Stir in beans (if using) and fresh basil during the last 5 minutes.
Adjust seasoning and serve hot, garnished with more herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
For thicker soup, blend 1–2 cups and stir back in.
Add quinoa, rice, or lentils for extra body.
Serve warm or chilled with crusty bread or salad.