HOT SOUP: You won't be disappointed with this simple soup that is so full of goodness and easy to make.

VEGETABLE CHOWDER:

2 tbsp. butter+ 1 tbsp. olive oil

½ cup each chopped onion, celery, carrots, green onions and zucchini                                                           

1½ tbsp. minced garlic                        

                                                         

2 cups peeled potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes            

5 cups cauliflower florets

1-2 tsp. curry powder or more to taste                        

2 tbsp. lemon juice

6-8 cups vegetable stock, or chicken stock if not vegetarian                  

¼ cup each minced fresh basil & parsley                                                       

salt and pepper to taste

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, melt butter in the olive oil. Add onion, green onion and garlic and cook until fragrant. Add rest of vegetables and cook 3 minutes more. Add curry powder, mixing in well; then the lemon juice and stock. Cover pot and bring to a boil over high heat; then reduce heat and simmer 20 to 30 minutes until vegetables are tender. Add parsley, basil, salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot or cold.