If you crave a warm and hearty meal, Classic Minestrone Soup is your answer. Packed with fresh veggies, nourishing beans, and flavorful herbs, it’s easy to make and perfect for any season. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this delicious dish that not only warms your belly but also delights your taste buds. Let’s dive into the world of homemade comfort food together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This minestrone is packed with a variety of vegetables and protein-rich beans, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full and energized.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes, making this recipe versatile for any season or personal taste.
- Healthy and Nutritious: With its abundance of veggies and low-sodium broth, this soup is not only delicious but also a wholesome choice for any diet.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This minestrone holds up well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, trimmed and diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
- 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow pasta)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Each ingredient plays a key role in making minestrone rich and tasty. The olive oil starts the dish with a smooth base. The onion and garlic add a sweet and savory depth. Carrots and celery bring crunch and color. Zucchini and bell peppers offer a fresh taste. Green beans add a lovely texture to the soup.
Canned tomatoes and cannellini beans boost flavor and nutrition. Vegetable broth provides a great liquid base for the soup. The small pasta brings heartiness, making each bite satisfying. Dried oregano and basil give the soup an aromatic touch. Finally, seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the flavors.
You can also garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese for a nice finish. This soup is personal. Each bite tells a story of comfort and warmth. Grab your ingredients, and let’s create something delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 medium onion, finely diced. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns soft.
3. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute until it smells good.
4. Next, add 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Then, mix in 1 diced zucchini and 1 diced bell pepper. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Add 1 cup of chopped green beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes with juice, and 6 cups of vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
Simmering the Soup
1. Turn up the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil.
2. Once boiling, lower the heat. Let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
3. Add in 1 can of drained cannellini beans and 1 cup of small pasta.
4. Stir in 2 teaspoons of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
5. Cook until the pasta is al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Final Touches
1. Taste the soup and add sea salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed.
2. Stir well to mix in the seasonings.
3. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and optional grated parmesan cheese.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get the best flavor in your minestrone, start with fresh veggies. They add great taste. Use good-quality olive oil to sauté your onions and garlic. This makes a big difference. Keep the heat medium to avoid burning. Don't rush the cooking time; let the flavors blend well.
Be careful with your pasta. Overcooked pasta can ruin the soup. Check it often while cooking. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. This keeps your soup from becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Minestrone soup pairs well with crusty bread. This adds a nice crunch to your meal. A fresh green salad on the side also works great. It adds a light touch to the meal.
For garnishes, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It adds color and freshness. You can also add grated parmesan cheese if you like. This adds a rich flavor that many enjoy.
Nutritional Information
Minestrone soup is healthy and filling. A serving has about 200 calories, depending on your ingredients. It is packed with vegetables, which are good for you. The beans add protein and fiber, making this soup a wholesome choice. Enjoy it as a hearty meal that warms your soul.
Pro Tips
- Use Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables that are in season for the freshest flavors and best nutrition.
- Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme towards the end of cooking for a vibrant flavor boost.
- Control Pasta Texture: Cook the pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers, as it can absorb too much broth over time.
- Make it Heartier: Add some chopped kale or spinach just before serving for extra nutrients and color.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily switch out veggies based on what’s fresh. Use sweet potatoes instead of carrots. Swap zucchini for squash or peas. Bell peppers can be any color you like. Fresh green beans can change to frozen ones if needed. You may also try different beans, such as black beans or kidney beans. For pasta, you can use gluten-free options or even rice.
Dietary Modifications
You can adapt minestrone to fit many diets. To make it vegan, skip the cheese. Use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. For gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta. If you prefer low-sodium, use low-sodium broth and limit added salt. You can enhance flavors by using smoked paprika or lemon juice.
Additional Flavors
Adding spices can boost your soup’s flavor. Try some red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a bright touch. If you want more protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage. You can also add lentils for a hearty option. These choices make minestrone a versatile dish.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your minestrone soup fresh, follow these tips:
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool down first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Soup: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space in the container for expansion. The soup can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Guidelines
Reheating your minestrone soup is easy. Here are some methods:
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often.
- Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Duration: Heat until the soup is hot throughout. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes on the stovetop or 2-3 minutes in the microwave.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of your minestrone soup varies:
- In the Fridge: It lasts about 4 days.
- In the Freezer: It can last up to 3 months. For the best taste, eat it sooner than that!
FAQs
What is the origin of minestrone soup?
Minestrone soup comes from Italy. It dates back to ancient times. The word "minestrone" means "big soup" in Italian. This soup uses many vegetables that vary by region. Each family has its own recipe. It often includes beans and pasta. People make it with whatever they have on hand. This makes minestrone a true comfort dish.
Can I make minestrone soup in advance?
Yes, you can make minestrone soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge after it cools. Place it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for later. Just make sure to leave out the pasta. Add fresh pasta when you reheat it.
How do I make minestrone soup thicker?
To thicken minestrone soup, you can do a few things.
- Add more beans: Mash some beans and stir them in.
- Use less broth: Start with less broth to make it thicker.
- Add a starch: You can also add more pasta or even rice.
- Cook longer: Let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
These tips help create a heartier texture.
Is minestrone soup vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, minestrone soup is vegetarian-friendly. It uses only vegetables, beans, and pasta. This soup is great for those who don’t eat meat. You can also make it vegan by skipping cheese. Just use vegetable broth instead of meat broth. It remains delicious and filling.
How can I make my minestrone soup low-calorie?
To make minestrone soup low-calorie, you can follow these tips:
- Use low-sodium broth: This cuts down on salt and calories.
- Add more veggies: Fill it with lots of colorful vegetables.
- Limit pasta: Use less pasta or choose whole grain options.
- Skip heavy garnishes: Avoid high-calorie toppings like cream or extra cheese.
These simple changes keep the soup light yet tasty.
In this post, we explored how to make a flavorful minestrone soup. We covered key ingredients, from fresh vegetables to herbs and broth. You learned step-by-step instructions for cooking, along with tips for perfecting your dish. We also discussed variations for dietary needs and storage tips for leftovers.
Enjoying this soup is not just about taste; it's healthy and filling. Experiment with your favorite ingredients or spices. The possibilities are endless. A warm bowl of minestrone awaits you!
