Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 46 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. Heat olive oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
  2. 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.
  3. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil and cook for about 30 seconds to release their aromas.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Add greens: Mix in the fresh spinach or kale and cook for about 2 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
  8. 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