Summer Minestrone

Directions

1. 1
   Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
2. 2
   Add the onion, season with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender and beginning to brown, 4 to 5 minutes more.
4. 4
   Meanwhile, separate the basil leaves from the stems.
5. 5
   Finely chop enough stems to yield 1 tablespoon.
6. 6
   Add the chopped stems to the onion along with the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
7. 7
   Add the potatoes and broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Add the zucchini, squash, and carrot and simmer for 3 minutes.
9. 9
   Add the peas and corn and simmer until the vegetables are just tender, 2 to 3 minutes more.
10. 10
    Sprinkle with the Parmesan and basil before serving.
11. 11
    Serve with the bread, if desired.