Name: Hearty Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Olive oil; Onion; Carrots; Celery; Garlic; Zucchini; Green beans; Diced tomatoes; Vegetable broth; Cannellini beans; Red kidney beans; Small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni); Fresh spinach or kale; Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper; Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

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This Hearty Minestrone Soup is a comforting, vegetable-packed Italian classic brimming with beans, pasta, and fresh vegetables in a savory tomato broth. It’s a wholesome meal that’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for cozy dinners or warming lunches any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with vegetables, fiber, and plant-based protein.
Warm, hearty, and satisfying without being heavy.
Easily customizable with seasonal vegetables or different beans.
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience.
Works as both a main course or a side dish.

Ingredients

Olive oil
Onion
Carrots
Celery
Garlic
Zucchini
Green beans
Diced tomatoes
Vegetable broth
Cannellini beans
Red kidney beans
Small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
Fresh spinach or kale
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
Stir in fresh spinach or kale until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 and takes about 20 minutes of prep time plus 35 minutes of cooking.

Variations

Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for added depth.
Swap spinach for Swiss chard or collard greens.
Add diced potatoes or butternut squash for extra heartiness.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Include pancetta or bacon for a smoky twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months—just cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming too soft.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Fresh is best for texture, but canned green beans or zucchini can work in a pinch.

What pasta shape works best?

Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work well.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding pasta in the last 30 minutes.

Can I freeze minestrone?

Yes, but for best results, freeze without the pasta and add it when reheating.

Can I add meat?

Yes, diced cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef are tasty additions.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook it separately and add it to each serving just before eating.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta.

Can I use different beans?

Absolutely, chickpeas or navy beans work well too.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced chili for heat.

Conclusion

Hearty Minestrone Soup is a versatile, nutritious, and deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend meals. Packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta in a savory tomato broth, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for comfort and flavor.

Jane