There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of minestrone soup. Picture this: a medley of vibrant vegetables, tender beans, and hearty pasta swimming in a rich tomato broth that wraps around you like your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and promising warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that tells stories—like those Sunday afternoons spent huddled around the table with family, sharing laughter while savoring every bite.
Now, imagine this minestrone soup at your next gathering, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cozy dinner party, this recipe brings people together in the best possible way. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into a bowl full of nostalgia and flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This minestrone soup is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor that will warm your soul
- You can customize it based on whatever vegetables are in season or hiding in your fridge
- Its colorful ingredients make it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
- This versatile dish is great as a starter or main course—ideal for any occasion!
Ingredients for Minestrone Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil adds richness to the soup while helping sauté those aromatic veggies.
Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped; it acts as the flavor base for our delightful concoction.
Garlic: About three cloves, minced—because let’s be real, garlic makes everything better.
Carrots: Two medium carrots, diced; their natural sweetness balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Celery: Two stalks, chopped fine; adds crunch and depth to our vegetable medley.
Zucchini: One medium zucchini, diced; its soft texture complements other ingredients perfectly.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: One can (14 oz) of these beauties brings tanginess and body to the soup.
Vegetable Broth: About four cups; choose low-sodium to control the flavor profile better.
Kidney Beans: One can (15 oz), rinsed and drained; they add protein and heartiness to our dish.
Pasta: About one cup of small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni; it’s what makes this soup truly filling!
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish—because who doesn’t want their soup looking fancy?
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: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and toss in the chopped onion. Let it sizzle for about five minutes until translucent. Add garlic, stirring until fragrant—don’t forget to dance a little while you wait!
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Toss in diced carrots and celery next. Sauté these colorful veggies for another five minutes until they soften slightly. It’s like throwing a mini vegetable party right there in your pot!
Step 3: Incorporate Zucchini and Tomatoes
Now add the diced zucchini followed by canned tomatoes (juice included) along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil—your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point.
Step 4: Stir in Beans and Pasta
Add kidney beans and pasta into the pot. Lower the heat and let it simmer away for about ten minutes until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally because we don’t want anything sticking to the bottom like an awkward date!
Step 5: Season Generously
Once everything is cooked through, season generously with salt, pepper, and perhaps even some Italian seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous! Give it one final stir before removing from heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle that beautiful minestrone soup into bowls, sprinkle fresh basil on top, and serve hot! Pair it with crusty bread if you want to go all out—you deserve it!
Your warm bowl of minestrone soup awaits! With each spoonful filled with vibrant colors and rich flavors, you’ll find comfort wrapped in every bite—a true celebration of homemade goodness that’s bound to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- Minestrone soup is more than just a hearty meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- Packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s customizable based on what you have at home
- This dish is perfect for any occasion and leaves your kitchen smelling divine
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots until they’re soft. Then add your broth, followed by veggies and beans. Cook the pasta separately to avoid sogginess. Finally, combine everything and let it simmer for optimal flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out veggies based on your preferences or what’s lurking in your fridge. Add some spinach for extra greens or toss in some leftover chicken for protein. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs.
Storing & Reheating
Allow the minestrone soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for three months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality broth for deeper flavor; it truly makes a difference
- Always cook the pasta separately to keep its texture intact
- Lastly, don’t skip the herbs; they add a burst of freshness that elevates your soup
Sometimes I whip up minestrone soup when friends visit, and their smiles make all the chopping worthwhile! It’s amazing how one pot of soup can spark laughter and warmth around the table.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Minestrone Soup?
To make a hearty minestrone soup, you’ll need a variety of fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, and zucchini. Additionally, include white beans or kidney beans for protein, and pasta for texture. Use vegetable broth as the base to enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley will add an aromatic touch. Don’t forget olive oil for sautéing the vegetables. For a rich taste, consider adding diced tomatoes and garlic. This combination creates a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone can enjoy.
How long does it take to make Minestrone Soup?
Making minestrone soup typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. Start by preparing your vegetables and sautéing them in olive oil. Once they soften, add your broth and any beans or pasta you plan to use. Let everything simmer together for around 20 minutes to blend the flavors beautifully. The result is a comforting, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. You can also make it ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day!
Can I freeze Minestrone Soup?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze minestrone soup! In fact, this soup freezes quite well due to its hearty ingredients. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space in the container since liquids expand when frozen. It’s best consumed within three months for optimal flavor. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Is Minestrone Soup healthy?
Minestrone soup is considered healthy due to its rich assortment of vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. The beans add protein and fiber, making it a filling option without being overly caloric. Using vegetable broth keeps it light, while whole-grain pasta boosts its nutritional value even further. Additionally, by controlling portion sizes and ingredients, you can easily customize this dish to suit dietary preferences or restrictions.
Conclusion for Minestrone Soup:
In summary, minestrone soup is a versatile dish packed with nutrients from various vegetables and legumes. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep on weekends. Freezing leftovers ensures you’ll have this wholesome meal ready anytime you crave something warm and comforting. By experimenting with different seasonal vegetables and herbs, you can create endless variations of this classic Italian recipe that fits your taste perfectly!
Minestrone Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Warm up with this delicious minestrone soup, a comforting blend of vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe allows you to customize the ingredients based on what’s in season or available in your pantry. Each spoonful brings nostalgia and satisfaction, making it a favorite for family meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and celery; sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add zucchini, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir in kidney beans and pasta; reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as desired. Remove from heat.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
