This Minestrone Soup recipe is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for any occasion, this hearty soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. It’s an easy dish to prepare and makes for great leftovers, ensuring that you can enjoy its flavors multiple times throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Packed: This minestrone soup is loaded with vegetables and beans, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple instructions and common ingredients, you can whip up this soup in no time.
- Versatile: You can customize your minestrone by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different types of beans.
- Great Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Comforting Dish: The warm tomato broth and tender pasta create a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your minestrone soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to cook evenly without crowding.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, helping to combine flavors seamlessly.
- Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for cutting vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
This minestrone soup recipe is loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta in a delicious tomato broth. This classic soup is nourishing, easy to make, and makes amazing leftovers!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion (chopped)
– 2 sticks celery (chopped)
– 3 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth
– 1 small zucchini (chopped)
– 1 cup chopped fresh green beans
– 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans (drained)
– 1 (14 ounce) can white kidney (cannellini) beans (drained)
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 3/4 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
– Salt & pepper (to taste)
– Fresh basil (optional, to taste)
– Freshly grated parmesan cheese (to taste)
How to Make Minestrone Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the oil, butter, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic to a large soup pot. Sauté for 7–10 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, zucchini, green beans, red kidney beans, white kidney beans, and Italian seasoning. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat so it’s simmering. Cover the pot with the lid slightly open and cook for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Add Pasta
Stir in the pasta. Continue simmering the soup without the lid for another 15–20 minutes or until both the pasta and veggies are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Before serving, season to taste with salt & pepper. Stir in fresh basil if using. Serve each bowl topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese. If you find your minestrone too thick after storing leftovers, add a splash more broth to thin it out.
How to Serve Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or an elegant presentation, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve your minestrone soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A nice sourdough or baguette complements the flavors perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the soup with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a burst of freshness and color to your bowl.
With a Side Salad
- Pair your minestrone with a light, refreshing salad. A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve the minestrone in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also makes for a tasty treat as you finish your soup.
Sprinkled with Cheese
- Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
How to Perfect Minestrone Soup
To achieve a delicious minestrone soup, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.
- Use seasonal vegetables: Incorporate fresh, seasonal produce for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preferences before serving.
- Cook pasta separately: If you plan on storing leftovers, cook pasta separately and add it when serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add protein: Boost the nutrition by adding cooked chicken or lentils for extra protein.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge; they can last up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently: When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to maintain texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Minestrone Soup
Serving minestrone soup alongside complementary dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs beautifully with any soup; simply toast bread with garlic butter.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light but flavorful side that enhances the soup’s taste.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting texture that contrasts nicely with the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies offer a hearty addition to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutritional value while being easy to prepare.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables makes for an exciting starter.
- Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, this salad adds protein and fiber while remaining refreshing against the warm soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers bright flavors that complement minestrone beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making minestrone soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen veggies instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Always choose fresh vegetables for the best taste and texture.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy results. Wait until the soup is nearly done before adding pasta to ensure it remains al dente.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly for a flavorful dish.
- Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality broth can impact the overall taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for richer flavors.
- Not Letting It Simmer: Rushing the cooking process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow your soup to simmer gently for optimal taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Minestrone Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Minestrone Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about minestrone soup that you might find helpful.
What is Minestrone Soup?
Minestrone soup is a hearty Italian dish filled with vegetables, beans, and pasta, all simmered in a flavorful tomato broth.
Can I customize my Minestrone Soup?
Absolutely! You can add any seasonal vegetables, different types of beans, or swap out pasta shapes based on your preference.
How do I make my Minestrone Soup vegan?
Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any cheese toppings. The recipe will still be delicious!
What should I serve with Minestrone Soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Final Thoughts
Minestrone soup is not only nourishing but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Its rich flavors will surely delight your family and friends, making it a go-to recipe for cozy dinners!
Soup
Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and nourishes the body. This vibrant soup features a delightful medley of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta simmered in a rich, tangy tomato broth. Perfect for any occasion, it’s not just comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for family dinners or meal prep. The beauty of minestrone lies in its versatility; feel free to customize it with seasonal produce or your favorite beans. As it simmers on the stove, the aromas will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Enjoy this delicious dish on its own or paired with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Onion
- Celery
- Carrots
- Garlic
- Crushed tomatoes
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Zucchini
- Green beans
- Red kidney beans
- White kidney (cannellini) beans
- Italian seasoning
- Elbow macaroni
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic; sauté for 7–10 minutes until soft.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, zucchini, green beans, both types of beans, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer. Cover slightly and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add pasta and continue simmering without the lid for another 15–20 minutes until pasta and veggies are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
