Minestrone Soup

There’s something magical about a big, steaming bowl of Minestrone Soup—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! Packed with colorful veggies, tender beans, and pasta, this hearty Italian classic is everything you need in one bowl. It’s rich in flavor, yet light and fresh, making it the perfect dish for any season. Each spoonful offers a delicious blend of savory broth, fresh herbs, and the perfect bite of vegetables, making this soup a true comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you’ll be slurping up those cozy vibes in no time. Get ready, because this Minestrone Soup is about to become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love Minestrone Soup

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with fiber, thanks to the veggies, beans, and pasta, making it a satisfying meal in itself.
• Packed with Veggies: You get all the goodness of seasonal vegetables—zucchini, carrots, spinach, and more—making it a healthy choice for the whole family.
• Flavorful and Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, and it’s super easy to throw in whatever veggies you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great option to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian version)
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, elbow, or rotini)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, if preferred)
• Fresh Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the veggies are softened.
3. Add the garlic, zucchini, and green beans, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, and add the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
2. Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Beans

1. Stir in the pasta and beans (kidney and cannellini). Continue simmering for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the beans are heated through.
2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 4: Add the Greens

1. Stir in the spinach (or kale), and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese (if using).
2. Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 4mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Minestrone Soup

• With Fresh Bread: Serve your Minestrone Soup with a slice of crusty Italian bread or a warm baguette to dip into the savory broth.
• Topped with Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor and adds a nice salty touch.
• As a Side: Minestrone Soup pairs wonderfully as a side with other Italian dishes, like lasagna or eggplant Parmesan.

Additional Tips

• Make it Vegan: This soup is naturally vegan if you skip the Parmesan cheese. You can also make it fully plant-based by using vegetable broth and adding more veggies.
• Use Gluten-Free Pasta: For a gluten-free version, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, like rice or corn pasta.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in any extra veggies you have lying around—things like sweet potatoes, peas, or broccoli work great in this soup!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A1: Yes, Minestrone Soup tastes even better the next day! You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q2: Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?
A2: Absolutely! You can swap in frozen veggies if that’s more convenient. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q3: Can I add meat to this soup?
A3: Yes, you can add cooked sausage, ground turkey, or even chicken to give the soup a meaty boost. Just sauté it with the vegetables in the beginning.

Q4: Can I make this soup spicy?
A4: Sure! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to give the soup a little heat.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

Q6: Can I substitute the pasta for something else?
A6: Yes, you can use quinoa, farro, or rice as an alternative to pasta for a gluten-free option.

Q7: How do I make this soup more flavorful?
A7: For extra depth of flavor, sauté the veggies in a little more olive oil or add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end.

Q8: Can I add cheese to the soup while cooking?
A8: Yes, you can stir in a little parmesan or mozzarella at the end of cooking for a cheesy, creamy texture.

Q9: How can I thicken the soup?
A9: To thicken the soup, you can either blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some of the beans for a creamier texture.

Q10: What type of beans can I use in this soup?
A10: You can use any type of beans—navy beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas are great options.

Conclusion

This Minestrone Soup is the perfect balance of healthy, comforting, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up and make you feel good from the inside out. It’s versatile, easy to make, and tastes amazing no matter how you tweak it. Enjoy!

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