Step 1

Over medium-high heat, heat the oil in a large pot with a lid. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.

Step 2

Add in the Italian seasoning and stir for 20 seconds.

Step 3

Add the tomato paste and mix for another 20 seconds.

Step 4

Add the water, vegetable bouillon cubes, beans, salt, and pepper. Mix well, bring to a boil, cover with the lid, and lower the heat to a simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 5

Once the 20 minutes have passed, turn off the heat, uncover, and blend 2 cups of soup. Pour the blended soup back into the pot and mix well.

Step 6

Add the kale and juice of one lemon if using. Mix well, cover with the lid, and allow the soup's heat to wilt the kale for 5 minutes.

Step 7

Serve and optionally garnish with parsley.