Minestrone Soup Recipe

Minestrone Soup is a classic Italian comfort food that’s perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep alike. Bursting with vegetables, beans, and pasta, this wholesome soup is rich in flavor and loaded with nutrients, making it a satisfying option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or need a quick, healthy lunch, this Minestrone Soup is the perfect go-to recipe. Let’s dive into what makes this soup special and how you can easily prepare it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Minestrone Soup

This Minestrone Soup is a delight for those who enjoy a hearty, nutritious meal that’s easy to make. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any season with fresh vegetables, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves a thick, filling soup with bold Italian flavors. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly (if you use veggie broth) and can easily be made vegan by omitting the butter or substituting it with a plant-based option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed to make this comforting Minestrone Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor. Swap with more olive oil for a vegan version.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds depth of flavor.
• 2 sticks celery, chopped – Provides a nice crunch and subtle flavor.
• 3 medium carrots, peeled & sliced – For sweetness and color.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that savory Italian taste.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – The base of the soup, giving it a rich tomato flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth – Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• 1 small zucchini, chopped – Adds texture and a fresh taste.
• 1 cup fresh green beans, chopped – For a crisp, slightly sweet element.
• 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained – Adds protein and heartiness.
• 1 (14 ounce) can white kidney (cannellini) beans, drained – Another layer of texture and nutrition.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For classic herbaceous notes.
• 3/4 cup uncooked elbow macaroni – Makes the soup more filling.
• Salt & pepper to taste – To enhance the flavors.
• Fresh basil (optional), to taste – Adds a fresh, aromatic finish.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste – For an added savory touch.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for 7-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Add the Broth and Vegetables: 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 the mixture to a boil.
3. Simmer the Soup: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low so it’s just simmering. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Continue to simmer the soup uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Season and Serve: Before serving, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh basil if using, and ladle the soup into bowls. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor. If the soup is too thick for your liking, thin it with a splash of additional broth.

Tips for the Best Minestrone Soup

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh veggies provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen options can be used in a pinch.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add the pasta towards the end to prevent it from getting too soft or mushy.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much, simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding Pasta Too Early: This can cause the pasta to become overly soft and absorb too much of the broth.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. This step ensures a well-balanced flavor.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables helps develop the flavor base of the soup, so don’t skip this step!

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve Minestrone Soup in large bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Add a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit of olive oil or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Minestrone freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add additional broth or water as the pasta tends to absorb liquid over time.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and replace butter with more olive oil.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety or omit it entirely and add extra vegetables.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or turkey if desired.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pair this hearty soup with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a refreshing beverage choice to complement the rich flavors of the soup.

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, feel free to substitute with black beans, chickpeas, or any beans you have on hand.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Minestrone Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
You can use any small pasta shape, like ditalini, orzo, or small shells.

Conclusion

This hearty Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also a nourishing and comforting option for any meal. It’s easy to customize, loaded with healthy ingredients, and perfect for meal prepping. Try this recipe today, share it with your friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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