Minestrone Soup Recipe

A comforting and flavorful Minestrone Soup recipe awaits you! This hearty dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for chilly days, making it a satisfying meal on its own. Packed with a delightful medley of vegetables, beans, pasta, and aromatic herbs in a savory tomato broth, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a quick lunch option, this recipe fits every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this soup can be made in under an hour.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a deliciously savory broth that warms the soul.
• Nutritious and Filling: A hearty mix of beans and vegetables ensures that each bowl is both satisfying and healthful.
• Versatile: Feel free to adapt the ingredients based on what you have available or your personal taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for batch cooking or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients together evenly while allowing enough space for boiling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

A comforting and flavorful Minestrone Soup recipe featuring a medley of vegetables, beans, pasta, and herbs in a savory tomato broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and makes a satisfying meal on its own.

Vegetables

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large zucchini, chopped into small cubes (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 medium carrots, diced into cubes (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 4 ribs celery, chopped into small pieces (about 1 cup)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tsp garlic, minced

Seasonings

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

Liquid Ingredients

• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 2 cups water

Beans & Pasta

• 15 oz cannellini beans, drained
• 15 oz kidney beans, drained
• 3/4 cup macaroni noodles or small pasta (uncooked)

How to Make Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
– Add zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion.
– Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning.
– Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Liquids

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and water to the pot.
– Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Add Beans and Pasta

Mix in cannellini beans, kidney beans, macaroni noodles, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
– Simmer until pasta is cooked through; this should take about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves from the pot.
– Adjust seasoning as needed.
– Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated parmesan before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Minestrone Soup Recipe

Minestrone soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, there are plenty of delicious serving suggestions to enhance your mealtime experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your minestrone soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. A fresh baguette or sourdough loaf works beautifully, soaking up the flavorful broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with freshly chopped herbs like basil or cilantro. This adds vibrant flavor and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

Sprinkle with Cheese

• Adding grated parmesan cheese on top brings a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients perfectly.

Accompanied by Salad

• Serve your minestrone alongside a crisp green salad. A simple vinaigrette can elevate the meal and add freshness to your plate.

As Part of a Larger Meal

• Minestrone can be an excellent starter for a multi-course meal. Consider serving it before pasta or grilled vegetables for a satisfying dining experience.

How to Perfect Minestrone Soup Recipe

To make the most of your minestrone soup recipe, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality produce will elevate the flavors in your soup. Choose seasonal vegetables for the best results.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, cook it just until tender before adding it to the soup. It will continue to soften while simmering.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to include other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference. Each batch may require different amounts.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the minestrone soup to sit for a while before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Minestrone Soup Recipe

Minestrone soup pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its hearty nature. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making every bite delightful.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness and acidity alongside the rich soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and provide a nutritious side option.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits topped with cheese are perfect for scooping up minestrone while adding extra comfort.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa, creating a filling accompaniment that complements the flavors of your soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
7. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia can be served plain or topped with herbs, making it an excellent pairing choice.
8. Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread balances out the savory flavors of minestrone, perfect for those who enjoy contrast in their meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Minestrone Soup recipe, avoiding common mistakes can enhance flavor and texture.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing vegetables first can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always begin by cooking the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until tender.
• Overcooking pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy. Add it to the soup towards the end of cooking to ensure it stays al dente.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always sample your soup before serving and tweak salt and pepper as needed.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Not rinsing canned beans can lead to a cloudy broth. Drain and rinse them under cold water for a cleaner taste.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs can miss out on enhanced flavor. Add parsley at the end for a fresh burst of taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Minestrone Soup recipe.

What is a traditional Minestrone Soup Recipe?

A traditional Minestrone Soup recipe includes various vegetables, beans, pasta, and sometimes meat. This version focuses on vegetable variety without any meat ingredients.

Can I customize my Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Yes! You can add seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale, change the beans used, or include different herbs based on your preferences.

How long does this Minestrone Soup Recipe take to prepare?

This Minestrone Soup recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time.

Is this Minestrone Soup Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! The soup is packed with vegetables, fiber-rich beans, and is low in fat, making it a nutritious choice for meals.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Minestrone Soup recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or grains. Enjoy it as a cozy meal on chilly days or serve it as a delightful starter for family gatherings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in a warm bowl of Minestrone Soup, a delightful blend of seasonal vegetables, hearty beans, and nourishing pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. This vibrant and flavorful dish is not only perfect for chilly days but also easy to whip up, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and cozy gatherings. Packed with nutrition, each bowl is a wholesome meal that can be customized to your taste. Whether enjoyed solo or paired with crusty bread, this Minestrone Soup will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large zucchini, chopped into small cubes
• 2 medium carrots, diced into cubes
• 4 ribs celery, chopped into small pieces
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 15 oz cannellini beans, drained
• 15 oz kidney beans, drained
• 3/4 cup macaroni noodles or small pasta

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion; cook until tender, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and water. Bring to a boil.
5. Add cannellini beans, kidney beans, macaroni noodles, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Simmer until pasta is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaves before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg