Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic

There’s something about the aroma of minestrone soup bubbling away on the stove that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables mingling with rich broth, creating a symphony of flavors that dances around your kitchen. It’s hearty, comforting, and just the thing to lift your spirits after a long day. If you’re looking for an easy way to impress your friends or family while filling their bellies with goodness, minestrone soup is your go-to dish.

I still remember my first attempt at making minestrone soup. I was in college, armed with limited culinary skills and a pantry stocked with canned goods. My friends were skeptical—would I really be able to whip up something delicious? Fast forward to dinner time, and there we were, slurping up bowls of vibrant broth filled with veggies as laughter erupted around the table. Who knew that a humble soup could bring so much joy? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for minestrone soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for maximum flavor when sautéing your vegetables.
• Onion: A chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
• Carrots: Diced carrots provide a sweet crunch; choose vibrant orange ones for the best flavor.
• Celery: This aromatic veggie brings freshness and balances out the flavors beautifully.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
• Zucchini: Add diced zucchini for a tender texture that enhances the overall experience.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes if you like a smoky touch in your soup.
• Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth gives body; choose low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
• Beans: Cannellini or kidney beans are great sources of protein and fiber; rinse them before using!
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work best; they soak up all those wonderful flavors.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds brightness; toss some in right before serving for freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make minestrone soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by drizzling olive oil into a large pot over medium heat. Allow it to warm up until shimmering but not smoking—this should take about two minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir occasionally for about five minutes until everything becomes soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Zucchini

Toss in minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for another three minutes while stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth

Now it’s time to add canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Bring this beautiful concoction to a gentle simmer—let those flavors meld together!

Step 5: Introduce Beans and Pasta

Stir in rinsed beans and small pasta shapes. Allow everything to cook together for about ten minutes until the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

Just before serving, stir in freshly chopped basil. Taste your masterpiece—add salt and pepper if needed—and ladle into bowls.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with olive oil for the perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy each spoonful of this delightful minestrone soup—it’s not just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your veggies and cook them down. Toss in the broth and beans next. Finally, let it simmer before adding the pasta to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach for a different flavor profile. You can also play with herbs—basil or thyme add a beautiful twist. For added protein, consider throwing in some diced chicken or sausage.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover minestrone soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Sometimes I whip up this minestrone soup when friends drop by unexpectedly. They rave about how cozy it feels—like being wrapped in a warm blanket while sipping comfort!

FAQs

What is minestrone soup?

Minestrone soup is a hearty Italian dish made with a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta. Traditionally, it incorporates seasonal ingredients, making each batch unique. The base often includes tomatoes, broth, and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano. This versatile soup can be easily customized based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a main course, minestrone soup is both nourishing and satisfying.

How long does minestrone soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, minestrone soup can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. To maintain its quality and flavor, ensure it cools down completely before refrigeration. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the soup. It can typically last for up to three months in the freezer without losing its taste or texture.

Can I make minestrone soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! In fact, traditional minestrone soup is often vegetarian-friendly. Simply omit any meat or meat-based broth and use vegetable broth instead. You can pack in various vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and carrots while adding beans for protein. This way, you’ll create a delicious and healthy vegetarian version that everyone will love.

What are some good toppings for minestrone soup?

Toppings can enhance your minestrone soup experience significantly. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds rich flavor and creaminess. Fresh basil or parsley provides a bright finish. For some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes. Additionally, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the overall taste while giving it an extra touch of elegance.

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Conclusion for minestrone soup

In summary, minestrone soup is a delightful blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta that showcases seasonal flavors. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry. This nutritious dish not only warms you up but also offers flexibility for dietary needs like vegetarian options. Enjoy it fresh or store leftovers for later; either way, it’s a comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

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Minestrone Soup Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm your soul with this vibrant minestrone soup, brimming with fresh vegetables and wholesome beans. It’s the perfect comforting bowl for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or kidney beans, rinsed
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

1. 1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it shimmer.
2. 2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. 3. Add Garlic and Zucchini: Stir in minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.
4. 4. Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Add the canned tomatoes with juices and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. 5. Introduce Beans and Pasta: Stir in the rinsed beans and pasta. Cook for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
6. 6. Final Touches: Stir in freshly chopped basil just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 510mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg