Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish loved by many. It is a hearty, vegetable-packed soup that warms you up on chilly days. With a mix of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, minestrone is not just delicious but also nourishing. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for any time of year.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make minestrone soup because it is versatile and easy to customize. You can use whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce waste. It’s also healthy, as it’s filled with vitamins and nutrients. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, minestrone soup ticks all the boxes for everyone’s taste.
How to Make Minestrone Soup
Making minestrone soup is simple and can be done in just a few steps. You start by sautéing some vegetables, then add in your broth and beans, followed by pasta. In less than an hour, you will have a warm, hearty soup ready to serve.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the zucchini and green beans, cooking for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the kidney beans and pasta.
- Cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
How to Serve Minestrone Soup
Serve minestrone soup hot, and make sure to add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for added flavor. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad to make it a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
How to Store Minestrone Soup
To store minestrone soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Minestrone Soup
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- Feel free to swap out any veggies you don’t like or don’t have. Spinach, potatoes, or corn can also be great additions.
- If you want more flavor, add a bay leaf or some Italian herbs while cooking.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of minestrone using vegetable broth. Additionally, you can add different types of beans or grains, like quinoa or farro, for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I make minestrone soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, minestrone soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it ahead and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Is minestrone soup gluten-free?
A: Not if you use regular pasta. To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a convenient option and work well in minestrone soup. Just add them in the same way you would fresh ones.
