Easy & Delicious Minestrone Soup Recipe

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Minestrone soup, a hearty and flavorful Italian vegetable soup, is perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. This recipe is easy to follow and allows for plenty of customization based on your favorite vegetables and pantry staples. Let’s dive into making this classic soup!

What is Minestrone Soup?

Minestrone is a thick vegetable soup of Italian origin. It often includes pasta or rice, beans, and a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, celery, and tomatoes. The exact ingredients can vary widely depending on regional and seasonal availability. This makes minestrone a versatile and healthy dish.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's a list of the essential ingredients for a delicious minestrone soup:

  • Vegetables: 1 onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 2 cloves garlic, 1 zucchini, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 cup green beans
  • Legumes: 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • Pasta: 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
  • Broth: 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
  • Seasoning: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Parmesan cheese rind, fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful minestrone soup:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Remaining Vegetables and Tomatoes: Stir in diced tomatoes, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Pour in Broth and Add Beans: Pour in vegetable broth (or chicken broth). Add cannellini beans and the Parmesan cheese rind (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Add Pasta: Stir in the pasta and cook until pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Season and Serve: Remove the Parmesan cheese rind. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips for the Perfect Minestrone

  • Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes. Get creative and use what you have on hand.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme can elevate the flavor of your soup. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their freshness.
  • Make it Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure your broth is vegetable-based and omit the Parmesan cheese.
  • Add a Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu.
  • Simmer for Longer: Simmering the soup for a longer time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer and more flavorful soup.

Serving Suggestions

Minestrone soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
  • Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a light and healthy meal.
  • Pesto: Add a dollop of pesto on top for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Minestrone soup is packed with nutrients, thanks to the variety of vegetables and beans. It’s a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for weight management.

Conclusion

This minestrone soup recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its customizable ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy a hearty and healthy meal in no time. So gather your favorite vegetables and start cooking!

Enjoy this classic Italian soup. For more delicious recipes, visit Your Recipe Website.