VEGAN ZUPPA TOSCANA

If I love you I have fed you! If you have ever had a JoJo-meal you know it’s one of my love languages and I will wait to see your reaction (insert laughter). One of the things I’ve learned from the world of relationships is that sometimes, the most intimate moments aren’t always the grand gestures but the simple acts of togetherness. Cooking together is not just about the meal you end up with, but the shared laughter, teamwork, and memories you create while getting there. So, I’m sharing one of my favorite recipes that’s perfect for couples to prepare together. This Vegan Zuppa Toscana isn't just nourishing for the body, but also for the heart and soul. Get ready to chop, stir, and sip some love together! Happy cooking!

the most intimate moments aren’t always the grand gestures but the simple acts of togetherness

Ingredients:

- 1 tbsp olive oil

- 1 medium onion, diced

- 4 garlic cloves, minced

- 3 large russet potatoes, sliced into bite-sized pieces

- 4 cups vegetable broth

- 2 cups unsweetened cashew milk (or your choice of plant-based milk)

- 1 bunch kale, de-stemmed and torn into pieces

- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

- 1 pack vegan sausage, crumbled or sliced

- Salt, pepper, and red chili flakes to taste

Instructions

TOGETHER

Begin by gathering all the ingredients and placing them on the counter. Enjoy a moment to appreciate the fresh produce and anticipate the delicious meal ahead.

PARTNER 1

While one person heats the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, the other can dice the onion and mince the garlic

TOGETHER

Once the oil is shimmering, work together to sauté the onion and garlic, stirring occasionally until translucent and aromatic

PARTNER 2

As the onion and garlic sauté, the other partner can slice the potatoes

TOGETHER

Add the potato slices to the pot Pour in the vegetable broth and cashew milk, stirring well Let the mixture come to a boil

PARTNER 1 6

While the soup is coming to a boil, the first partner can destem and tear the kale into pieces.

PARTNER 2 7

The other partner can work on chopping the sun-dried tomatoes and prepping the vegan sausage

TOGETHER 8

Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat Stir in the kale, sun-dried tomatoes, and vegan sausage Let the soup simmer until the kale is wilted and the sausage is heated through

SEASONING FUN

This is a fun part for couples! Taste the soup and decide together how much salt, pepper, and chili flakes to add One can add the seasonings while the other stirs, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly

SERVE & ENJOY

Once satisfied with the seasoning, ladle the soup into bowls Share a toast to your teamwork and enjoy your culinary creation together!

For added fun, couples can switch roles for each step or find their own rhythm. The key is to communicate, have fun, and cherish the shared experience.