Description
A classic Italian vegetable soup filled with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. Nutritious, hearty, and perfect for everyday meals.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 5 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can kidney beans, drained (15 oz)
Pantry & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
Garnish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté base vegetables: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add additional vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, chopped zucchini, and green beans, cooking for another 3 minutes to slightly soften them and release their flavors.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and sprinkle in dried oregano. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Boil and add pasta: Bring the soup mixture to a boil, then add the small pasta and reduce heat to simmer.
- Simmer pasta: Let the soup simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Add beans and finish cooking: Stir in the drained kidney beans and cook for an additional 3 minutes to heat them through.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Notes
- You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- For added nutrition, consider adding fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use homemade vegetable broth for a richer flavor if preferred.
- Adjust salt quantity depending on the saltiness of your broth to avoid over-seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
