Minestrone Soup

September 27, 2023

Minestrone soup is a hearty and nutritious Italian soup that’s perfect for any time of the year. It’s a versatile dish that allows you to use various vegetables and beans. Here’s a classic minestrone soup recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 yellow squash, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, small shells)
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (or a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add Vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, and green beans to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and kidney beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add Pasta: Once the soup is boiling, add the small pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for as long as the pasta package recommends, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Check Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs.
  7. Serve: Ladle the hot minestrone soup into bowls. If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.
  8. Enjoy: Serve the minestrone soup hot as a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Minestrone soup is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and beans. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of nutritious ingredients in one delicious bowl of soup.