Save Minestrone Soup is a hearty, classic Italian soup brimming with seasonal vegetables, tender pasta, and creamy beans in a flavorful tomato broth. This nourishing vegetarian meal is a perfect choice for those seeking a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that celebrates traditional Mediterranean flavors.
Save With a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, this soup is an excellent option for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. The combination of vegetable broth, aromatic herbs, and two types of beans creates a satisfying texture that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in garlic, zucchini, and green beans; cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Step 3
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Step 4
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Step 5
- Stir in pasta and both types of beans. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
- Step 6
- Add spinach or kale and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove bay leaf.
- Step 7
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 8
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, use a large soup pot and a wooden spoon for stirring. Make sure to dice your vegetables uniformly so they cook at the same rate. Always check your labels for hidden allergens, particularly in the broth and pasta.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety if needed. This soup also works well with additional vegetables such as potatoes, cabbage, or peas depending on what is in season.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread and a light red wine like Chianti for a complete meal.
Save Enjoy this comforting bowl of Minestrone Soup, a vegetarian classic that brings the rustic charm of Italian cooking into your home. With 275 calories per serving, it is a healthy and satisfying dish for any occasion.
Cooking Guide
- → What vegetables work best in minestrone?
Traditional vegetables include onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, green beans, and leafy greens like spinach or kale. You can also add potatoes, cabbage, or peas based on seasonality and preference.
- → Can I make minestrone gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shapes like rice or corn-based alternatives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- → How long does minestrone keep in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, minestrone keeps well for 4-5 days. The flavors actually develop and improve over time, making it excellent for meal prep.
- → Can I freeze minestrone soup?
Yes, minestrone freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. For best results, slightly undercook the pasta before freezing, as it will continue cooking when reheated.
- → What type of pasta is traditionally used?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best as they fit perfectly on the spoon and hold up well in the broth without becoming mushy.
- → Is minestrone suitable for vegetarians?
This version is vegetarian when made with vegetable broth. For vegan diets, simply omit the Parmesan cheese garnish or use a plant-based alternative.