Leeks?

What about carrot parsnip? Roast them then blend with stock.

Or butternut squash?

Sweet potato black bean chili?

Borscht? All sound like a great party to me!

Tomato bean soup-- 2 cans cannelloni beaNs and two or 3 cans diced tomatoes. Sauté an onion and 2 cloves garlic in evoo. Add beans and tomatoes, And puree! Add salt and pepper. Also add either chopped parsley and basil or chopped cilantro. Easy!!!

we are hosting-6-8 families for a Chanukah party and I wanted to make a soup or maybe even a chilli. I don't want to make matzah ball or a potato soup. Wanted something new...I was thinking a bean soup perhaps? I am looking for a relatively simple soup that isn't too difficult to make in large quantities. Something different...TIA