There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of soup, and few do it better than minestrone. Packed with vegetables, beans, pasta, and an irresistible broth, it’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Minestrone soup has its roots in Italy, where it began as a humble, rustic meal that made use of whatever vegetables were on hand. Over the centuries, it evolved into a beloved classic adored around the world.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a wholesome way to get more veggies into your diet, minestrone is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s super versatile! You can adapt it to suit your taste, dietary needs, or the contents of your pantry. Here's everything you need to know to whip up this satisfying soup in your very own kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic minestrone soup (this recipe serves 6-8 people):
For the base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables & Beans:
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) cannellini or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
Broth & Flavorings:
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Finish:
- 1 cup small pasta (elbow macaroni or ditalini work well)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Base
Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the zucchini, green beans, and cubed potatoes. Stir everything together so the veggies are coated in the flavors of the base.
3. Build the Broth
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, vegetable broth, and water. Stir in the Italian seasoning and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are tender.
4. Stir in the Beans and Pasta
Add the drained beans to the pot, along with your pasta. Continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes until the pasta is cooked al dente. If the soup starts to look too thick, feel free to add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Greens (Optional)
If using spinach or kale, stir it into the soup during the final few minutes of cooking. The greens should wilt without losing their vibrant color.
6. Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup, adjusting the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkling of parsley, if desired.
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Make it vegetarian or vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, but to make it vegan, simply skip the Parmesan topping.
- Swap the pasta: If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or even rice.
- Protein boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier version.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with fresh rosemary, thyme, or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Storage: Minestrone stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. The pasta will absorb some of the broth over time, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.
Minestrone soup is a dish that’s as fun to make as it is satisfying to eat. Its versatility allows you to get creative with ingredients, making it the ultimate clean-out-the-fridge recipe. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a busy weeknight, or you’re just craving something comforting, this recipe will warm your belly and lift your spirits. Give it a try—you’ll be surprised at how simple yet flavorful homemade minestrone can be!
إرسال تعليق