Minestrone Soup Recipe: A Hearty, Flavorful Classic
Minestrone soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Packed with veggies, beans, and pasta, it’s an incredibly versatile dish you can adjust based on the season or what you have in your pantry.
Whether you’re making it on a chilly day or just craving a healthy, hearty meal, this minestrone soup recipe covers you.
Ingredients
For a big pot of minestrone that serves about 6 people, you’ll need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow, or shell pasta work best)
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or fresh herbs like basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent.
Then stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, and green beans, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Build the Soup Base
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir in your Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. This is where your soup gets that savory, rich base.
Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta and cannellini beans to the pot. Stir it all together and let the soup simmer for another 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender. The beans add creaminess, while the pasta soaks up all the yummy broth.
Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. Depending on your taste, you might want to add a pinch of salt or a little pepper. If you want more herb flavor, add some extra basil or oregano.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, and for extra indulgence, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. The cheese adds a nice salty kick, and the herbs brighten everything.
Serving Suggestions
Minestrone soup is perfect for dipping with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s filling enough to be a main course, but you can also serve it as a side dish to any Italian-inspired meal. Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the soup’s hearty flavors.
Tips for Perfect Minestrone Soup
- Customize the Veggies: Minestrone is super versatile! Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand, like spinach, kale, or peas.
- Add Greens: For an extra nutrient boost, toss in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. They’ll cook down nicely and add some color.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Variations to Try
- Pasta-Free Minestrone: If you’re watching your carbs, skip the pasta and load up on extra beans or vegetables for a satisfying, low-carb version.
- Meat Lover’s Minestrone: For extra protein, add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or pancetta. It adds a savory richness to the soup.
- Vegan Minestrone: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based broth to make it vegan. The soup will still be flavorful and comforting!
Conclusion
Minestrone soup is one of those dishes that never goes out of style. It’s simple, healthy, and customizable—perfect for any day of the week.
Whether you’re making it with seasonal vegetables or clearing out your pantry, this soup will surely please.
So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—this comforting, flavorful minestrone will be your new go-to! Enjoy!
