Vegan Minestrone Soup

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cook garlic and 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the garlic is softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add bread; toss to coat. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Bake until toasted, 8 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add leek and carrots; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5 to 6 minutes. Add broth, water and salt; cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Add pasta and reduce heat to medium-high; cook uncovered, stirring often, for 5 minutes. Add zucchini; cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 5 minutes. Stir in beans, kale, peas and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted, about 2 minutes. Ladle the soup evenly into 6 bowls; sprinkle with the croutons.