Have you ever longed for a bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out? This classic Italian Minestrone is just that. It’s a hearty, veggie-packed soup that brings together the rich flavors of seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta, creating a comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
This Minestrone soup is a versatile recipe that allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, and it tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep. Whether you’re craving something light or filling, this soup can satisfy both desires.
Delicious and Hearty Minestrone Soup
This Minestrone soup is a delightful mix of vibrant vegetables, tender beans, and pasta simmered in a savory broth.
The comforting taste comes from the natural sweetness of the vegetables combined with the heartiness of the beans and aromatic herbs.
Perfect for any time of year, this dish highlights fresh seasonal produce and adds a nourishing touch to your meals.
Minestrone offers a wholesome option that can easily adapt to your pantry staples.
Cooking Up Comfort
Creating a bowl of Minestrone is straightforward and satisfying.
Start with a base of olive oil, onion, and garlic, which set the stage for the layers of flavor to come.
Sautéing these ingredients creates a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen, welcoming everyone to the table.
Next, add diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans.
These vegetables not only add color but also a range of textures that enhance the soup’s overall appeal.
Seasoning for Depth
Seasonings play a significant role in elevating the Minestrone.
A combination of dried oregano and basil infuses the broth with warmth and earthiness, making each spoonful comforting.
Adjusting the salt and pepper at the end ensures that the flavors are just right for your palate.
Don’t be afraid to modify the seasoning to match your personal taste or even experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Pasta and Beans Unite
Choosing the right pasta is key to a satisfying Minestrone.
Small shapes like ditalini or elbow pasta work well, soaking up the rich broth while providing bite-sized comfort.
Once the pasta is cooked al dente, it enhances the heartiness of the soup.
Kidney beans add protein and fiber, making this dish not just tasty but also nutritious.
It’s a fulfilling meal that can stand alone or complement a light salad or crusty bread.
Garnishing and Serving
For a final touch, garnish your Minestrone with fresh parsley.
This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
Serve hot in rustic bowls, and don’t forget that slice of crusty bread on the side.
It’s perfect for dipping into the warm, savory goodness of the soup.
Meal Prep and Enjoyment
Minestrone soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep.
It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family gathering, this classic Italian dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Delicious and Hearty Minestrone Soup
This Minestrone soup is a flavorful blend of fresh vegetables, tender beans, and pasta simmered in a savory broth. It offers a comforting taste that balances the sweetness of the vegetables with the earthiness of the beans and herbs.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your hearty Minestrone soup with a slice of crusty bread.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
