Easy & Delicious Minestrone Soup Recipe

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Minestrone soup is a hearty, vegetable-packed Italian soup that's perfect for any time of year. It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. This recipe provides a simple yet delicious base that you can customize to your liking. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort!

What is Minestrone Soup?

Minestrone is a thick soup of Italian origin made with vegetables, often with the addition of pasta or rice, sometimes both. Common ingredients include beans, onions, celery, carrots, stock, and tomatoes. There is no fixed recipe for minestrone, as it is typically made using seasonal vegetables. This makes it a fantastic way to use up leftover produce and create a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Key Ingredients for the Best Minestrone

  • Vegetables: The heart of minestrone! Consider using a mix of diced carrots, celery, zucchini, potatoes, and spinach. Canned diced tomatoes add a rich base flavor.
  • Beans: Cannellini beans or kidney beans are commonly used for their creamy texture and nutritional value.
  • Pasta or Rice: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work well. Rice can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
  • Broth: Vegetable broth provides a light and flavorful base. Chicken broth can also be used for a richer taste.
  • Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and herbs like basil and oregano build the foundational flavor of the soup.

Simple Minestrone Soup Recipe

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup diced zucchini
  • 1 cup cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add Base Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Incorporate Remaining Vegetables and Beans: Add zucchini, cannellini beans, and pasta. Continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Add Spinach: Stir in spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking until wilted.
  5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Minestrone Soup

  • Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season. Green beans, peas, corn, or kale are all great additions.
  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley added at the end of cooking can brighten the flavor of the soup.
  • Add a Parmesan rind: Simmering a Parmesan rind in the soup while it cooks adds a depth of flavor. Remove the rind before serving.
  • Make it vegetarian/vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly and omit the Parmesan cheese garnish.
  • Storage: Store leftover minestrone soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together even more overnight!

Health Benefits of Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The abundance of vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Beans add protein and fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness and aiding in digestion. This soup is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option that supports overall health and well-being.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

  • Pesto Minestrone: Stir in a spoonful of pesto before serving for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
  • Spicy Minestrone: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat.
  • Chicken Minestrone: Add shredded cooked chicken for extra protein.

Serve and Enjoy!

Minestrone soup is a versatile and comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch. Its customizable nature makes it easy to adapt to your preferences and dietary needs. Gather your favorite vegetables, follow this simple recipe, and enjoy a delicious and nutritious bowl of homemade minestrone soup. Bon appétit!