Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

This Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or meal prep for a busy week, this flavorful soup is loaded with nutritious vegetables and legumes. Its rich taste and heartiness make it a standout dish that satisfies both the body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with vegetables and legumes, this soup offers a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand; this recipe is flexible!
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this Italian Minestrone Soup in no time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal.
• Perfect for Freezing: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly without overflow.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of vegetables, making prep a breeze.

Ingredients

This Italian Minestrone Soup is the definition of comfort food. Its a one pot soup packed with nutrients, veggies and legumes, not to mention super delicious!

Ingredients:
– 1 onion finely diced
– 2 carrots finely diced
– 2 celery sticks finely diced
– 2 garlic cloves diced
– 2 bay leaves
– 3 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 potato diced into cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth – I’ve used low sodium
– ½ cup dried lentils or 1 can cooked lentils
– 1 can (15oz / 400g) cannellini beans or preferred beans
– 1 cup (4.5oz / 125g) small pasta – I’ve used farfalline pastina
– 3 cups spinach – roughly chopped
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional parmesan cheese rind (omit for vegan recipe)
– Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
– Chopped fresh basil or parsley
– Black pepper and / or red pepper flakes
– Grated parmesan cheese or pecorino
– Crusty bread

How to Make Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, add the olive oil, onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Add a good pinch of salt and sauté together for 5 minutes over medium heat until the onions are translucent and vegetables are starting to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add the garlic cloves and tomato paste. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and the tomato paste turns a deep dark red color.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Lentils

Pour in the vegetable broth, potato, parmesan rind (if using), 2 cups of water, and dried lentils (if using canned lentils, wait until the next step). Season well with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then simmer on low-medium heat with the lid on for 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Add Beans

After simmering, add canned beans along with any cooked lentils if using. Continue to simmer with the lid on for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Optional Blending

For a creamier texture, remove 2 cups of the soup from the pot. Add these to a blender and blend until smooth.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Pour the puree back into the pot along with small pasta. Allow it to cook—usually about 7 minutes for small pasta—while tasting for seasoning. If needed, adjust consistency by adding more water.

Step 7: Stir in Spinach

When pasta is almost fully cooked but still al dente, stir in chopped spinach. Cook for a few more minutes until wilted.

Step 8: Serve

Remove bay leaves and parmesan rind if used. Your delicious Italian Minestrone Soup is ready! Serve in bowls with an optional drizzle of olive oil, grated parmesan cheese, black pepper, crusty bread alongside for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Serving Italian Minestrone Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and creating a warm, inviting meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the broth beautifully, adding texture and heartiness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with chopped fresh basil or parsley. This adds a burst of freshness that brightens the dish.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top before serving brings richness and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

With Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle grated parmesan or pecorino cheese over each bowl for an extra savory touch. This also adds a creamy texture that complements the vegetables.

Served with a Salad

• Accompany your soup with a light green salad. The crispness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the warm, hearty soup.

As Part of a Multi-Course Meal

• Serve Italian Minestrone Soup as an appetizer or starter in a multi-course Italian dinner. It sets the tone for an enjoyable meal ahead.

How to Perfect Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

To achieve the perfect bowl of Italian Minestrone Soup, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs provide better flavor compared to frozen or canned options. Quality ingredients make all the difference.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced seasoning throughout.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, cook it until just al dente before adding it to the soup. This ensures it retains some bite.

• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup and mix it back in. This gives you a rich base without heavy cream.

• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to substitute different beans based on your preference or what’s available. Chickpeas or kidney beans work well too.

• Store Properly: If making in advance, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors develop even more overnight!

Best Side Dishes for Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Italian Minestrone Soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its hearty nature. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup’s flavorful broth. Toast it until golden brown for added crunch.

2. Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness and balances the warmth of the soup.

3. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta is a delightful starter that enhances your Italian theme while offering contrasting textures.

4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates an exciting variety that pairs wonderfully with minestrone.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Roasted stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide additional protein and make for a filling accompaniment.

6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese is another comforting side that complements soups well, offering both flavor and substance.

7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while harmonizing nicely with the flavors found in minestrone soup.

8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly allows guests to enjoy something refreshing alongside their warm bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect your delicious results.

• Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavors. Always start by cooking onions and carrots to build a robust base.
• Using high-sodium broth – A low-sodium vegetable broth is key for flavor control. Opt for low-sodium to avoid overpowering your soup.
• Overcooking the pasta – Small pasta cooks quickly. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep it al dente and prevent mushiness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and pepper after each major addition for balanced flavor.
• Not removing bay leaves – Bay leaves add flavor but should not be eaten. Always remember to remove them before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 25 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until piping hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

Italian Minestrone Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made with vegetables, legumes, and pasta. It’s known for its comforting qualities and health benefits.

Can I customize Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Try zucchini, green beans, or even chicken for variety.

Is Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) vegan?

Yes! Simply omit any cheese rind and you have a delicious vegan version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

How do I make Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional pasta. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Its versatility allows for endless customization based on what you have at home. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or meal prep ideas, this soup is sure to please everyone at your table!

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Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup), a delightful dish that brings together a medley of nutritious vegetables, legumes, and pasta. This one-pot wonder is perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. With its robust flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup not only satisfies the taste buds but also nourishes the body and soul. Easy to make and customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand, it’s a versatile option that can be enjoyed year-round. Serve it hot with crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery sticks, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
• ½ cup dried lentils or 1 can cooked lentils
• 1 can (15oz) cannellini beans
• 1 cup small pasta (farfalline or similar)
• 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
• Extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves in olive oil until vegetables soften.
2. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
3. Pour in broth and combine with potatoes and lentils; bring to a boil then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
4. Stir in canned beans; simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. For creaminess, blend part of the soup before returning it to the pot with pasta.
6. Cook pasta until al dente; stir in spinach until wilted.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings like fresh herbs or cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 14g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 0mg