Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and soul. It is packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a hearty and nutritional meal. This wholesome soup is perfect for any time of the year but especially comforting during colder months. It is easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone.
Why make this recipe
This hearty minestrone soup is not just tasty, but it is also very versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, and it is a great way to use up leftovers. It is healthy, filled with fiber and protein from the beans, and very filling thanks to the pasta. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly dish that offers a lot of nutrition without breaking the bank.
How to make Hearty Minestrone Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add carrots and celery; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, and cannellini beans.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until tender (about 10 minutes).
- Stir in spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Serve hot as a comforting meal.
How to serve Hearty Minestrone Soup
Serve this delicious minestrone soup hot, ideally in a bowl with some crusty bread on the side. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
How to store Hearty Minestrone Soup
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, it’s best to freeze it. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months.
Tips to make Hearty Minestrone Soup
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this soup. Bell peppers, corn, or even potatoes can be great additions.
- If you want it to be creamier, add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
- For more flavor, use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
Variation
You can easily adapt this soup to your taste. Adding meat, like diced chicken or sausage, can make it heartier. You can also use different types of beans or pasta shapes, depending on what you have available.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just follow the same steps, but add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover minestrone soup can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. It also makes a great lunch option!
