Minestrone Soup Recipe

A comforting and flavorful Minestrone Soup recipe features a medley of vegetables, beans, pasta, and herbs in a savory tomato broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and makes a satisfying meal on its own, ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients that fill you up without weighing you down.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under an hour.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand for a unique twist every time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a rich taste that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while providing enough space for stirring.
• Cutting board: A safe surface to chop vegetables, ensuring you maintain your kitchen’s cleanliness.
• Sharp knife: Facilitates easy chopping of veggies, making prep time quicker and safer.

Ingredients

A comforting and flavorful Minestrone Soup recipe featuring a medley of vegetables, beans, pasta, and herbs in a savory tomato broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and makes a satisfying meal on its own.

Vegetables

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large zucchini, chopped into small cubes (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 medium carrots, diced into cubes (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 4 ribs celery, chopped into small pieces (about 1 cup)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tsp garlic, minced

Seasonings and Broth

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

Other Ingredients

• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 15 oz cannellini beans, drained
• 15 oz kidney beans, drained
• 3/4 cup macaroni noodles or small pasta(uncooked)

How to Make Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine with Tomatoes

Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta

Mix in cannellini beans, kidney beans, uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Simmer until the pasta is cooked through.

Step 6: Finish Up

Remove bay leaves from the soup. Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Minestrone Soup Recipe

Minestrone soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve slices of toasted sourdough or freshly baked baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Enjoy warm garlic bread on the side for a flavorful complement to the soup’s savory notes.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley Sprinkles: Add an extra sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness and brightness.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Top each serving with shavings of Parmesan cheese for added richness.
• Cheddar or Mozzarella: Experiment with sharp cheddar or gooey mozzarella for a different twist.

As Part of a Salad Meal

• Green Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Pair with Caesar salad for a heartier option that complements the soup’s flavors.

How to Perfect Minestrone Soup Recipe

To create the ultimate Minestrone Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and make it even more delicious.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference for perfect seasoning.
• Add Pasta Last: To prevent overcooking, add pasta towards the end of cooking when the broth is boiling.
• Incorporate Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale just before serving for extra nutrients and color.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Minestrone Soup Recipe

Minestrone soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery treat that perfectly complements the savory broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Focaccia Bread: Soft and fluffy focaccia adds an Italian flair to your meal, great for soaking up the soup.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs makes for a vibrant appetizer.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor while keeping things healthy.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety and richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of their Minestrone Soup. Here are key errors to watch for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté your vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook your base ingredients first to enhance their flavors.
• Overcooking pasta: Adding pasta too early can result in mushiness. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can leave your soup flat. Always sample before serving and adjust salt or herbs as needed.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Canned beans often contain excess sodium. Rinse them under cold water to reduce salt content before adding them to your soup.
• Not using fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate your Minestrone Soup’s flavor. Use fresh parsley instead of dried for a brighter taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Minestrone Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Minestrone Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot, cover, and heat over medium until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Minestrone Soup recipe that might help you.

How long does this Minestrone Soup recipe take?

This hearty Minestrone Soup takes about 50 minutes from prep to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Can I customize my Minestrone Soup recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Try spinach, kale, or diced chicken for variety.

Is this Minestrone Soup recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with vegetables and beans, providing fiber and nutrients while being low in calories.

What should I serve with my Minestrone Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Minestrone Soup recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or even switch up the beans. It’s perfect as a cozy fall dinner or hearty lunch option, sure to warm you up on chilly days!

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Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of a homemade Minestrone Soup, a classic Italian dish brimming with vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, providing both nourishment and satisfaction in every bowl. With its easy preparation and versatility, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables. Enjoy it on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal that warms the heart and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large zucchini, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 4 ribs celery, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 15 oz cannellini beans, drained
• 3/4 cup macaroni noodles (uncooked)
• Fresh parsley and parmesan cheese for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Mix in cannellini beans, uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, and bay leaves; simmer until pasta is cooked.
6. Remove bay leaves; adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley and parmesan cheese before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 5mg