Whether you're a vegetarian or not, it's a good idea to make the move toward eating less meat and more vegetables — for environmental, health, and budgetary reasons alike. If you've already started with meatless Mondays and want to take it to the next step, apply the same principle to your Sundays as well. You'll begin the week on a lighter step. Whip up a nontraditional vegetable soup that calls for softening, then puréeing carrots, celery, onion, and two different types of tomatoes.
For a little contrast in texture, drop in florets of broccolini and pieces of bread. Warm up to a new soup idea after the break.

Follow this recipe and learn how to marinate and cure your own olives today; in a week's time, you'll have an easy appetizer or wonderful edible gift.