Description
Hearty Minestrone is a classic Italian vegetable soup featuring a wholesome blend of beans, pasta, and seasonal vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. This hearty, nutritious soup is filling and perfect for a comforting meal any day.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 2 cups spinach or kale
Pantry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Add diced carrot, chopped celery, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes stirring occasionally until the vegetables are slightly softened but retain some bite.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, drained kidney beans, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer Soup: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Add the small pasta to the pot and cook for around 8 to 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Greens: Stir in the spinach or kale into the hot soup and cook just until the greens are wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve the soup warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Add Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor if the recipe is not needed to be vegan.
- Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for versatility.
- The soup thickens as it sits; add additional vegetable broth or water when reheating to adjust consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
