Description
Minestrone Soup is a classic Italian vegetable soup made with beans, pasta, and seasonal vegetables simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s hearty, nourishing, and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 3/4 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté aromatic vegetables: Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil and cook for about 30 seconds to release their aromas.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with the 6 cups of vegetable broth. Then add the drained kidney beans and cannellini beans to the pot.
- Simmer base: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Add vegetables, pasta, and seasonings: Stir in diced zucchini, chopped green beans, small pasta, salt, and black pepper. Continue simmering for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Add greens: Mix in the fresh spinach or kale and cook for about 2 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Final seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Add pasta just before serving if storing leftovers to prevent sogginess.
- Use seasonal vegetables for best flavor.
- This soup freezes well without the pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian