Minestrone Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that warms both the heart and the soul, this minestrone soup is just what you need. It’s packed with vibrant vegetables, protein-rich beans, and delightful pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. This recipe has been a family favorite for years; it brings everyone together on busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies!

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends and family, this minestrone soup is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and makes fabulous leftovers that taste even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this minestrone soup comes together quickly.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love it! The colorful veggies and pasta make it fun and enjoyable for everyone at the table.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch over the weekend and enjoy it all week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and spices meld beautifully with the tomatoes for an incredibly tasty experience.
• Versatile options: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what veggies or beans you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This minestrone soup recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are sure to nourish your body and soul. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 sticks celery (chopped)
• 3 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth

For the Veggies and Beans

• 1 small zucchini (chopped)
• 1 cup chopped fresh green beans
• 1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 (14 ounce) can white kidney (cannellini) beans (drained)

For Seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3/4 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil (optional, to taste)
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about this minestrone soup is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the beans: Use any variety you like—black beans or chickpeas work wonderfully!
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Change up the pasta: Feel free to use any small pasta shape you prefer, like ditalini or shells.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

How to Make Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by adding the olive oil and butter to a large soup pot over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté these fragrant ingredients for about 7-10 minutes until they’re soft. This step is essential because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor!

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes along with your choice of broth. Add in the chopped zucchini, fresh green beans, red kidney beans, white kidney beans, and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a boil by increasing the heat—this helps develop those delicious flavors we’re after.

Step 3: Simmer It Down

Once your soup is boiling merrily away, reduce the heat so it’s just simmering. Cover the pot but leave the lid slightly open; let it cook for about 10 minutes. This gentle simmer allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to stir in your uncooked elbow macaroni! Keep simmering without a lid for another 15-20 minutes until both the pasta and veggies are tender. Remember to stir occasionally; this will prevent any pasta from sticking to the bottom of your pot.

Step 5: Final Touches

Before serving up those warm bowls of comfort food, season your soup generously with salt and pepper—trust me; it makes all the difference! If you like basil, stir that in too. Serve each bowl topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. If you find your minestrone too thick after sitting for a bit, just add a splash more broth to loosen it up!

Enjoy your homemade minestrone soup! It truly is a bowl full of love that you’ll want to share with everyone around you.

Pro Tips for Making Minestrone Soup

Making minestrone soup is all about layering flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you create a truly delightful bowl of goodness!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your soup. The fresher the ingredients, the more nutrients you’ll pack into each serving!
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in or out any vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. This flexibility allows you to make a unique version of minestrone that suits your taste.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Sautéing the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic until they’re fragrant and slightly caramelized builds a delicious base for your soup. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth during cooking or when reheating leftovers. It’s all about finding the perfect consistency for your palate!
• Make It Ahead of Time: Minestrone soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

How to Serve Minestrone Soup

Serving minestrone soup can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this classic dish into something special that impresses family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of torn fresh basil leaves adds a burst of freshness and an aromatic touch.
• Parmesan Cheese: A generous helping of freshly grated parmesan cheese brings richness and depth to each bowl.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping; it perfectly complements the heartiness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that adds crunch and flavor to each meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette balances the hearty soup nicely.
• Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a delightful appetizer that brightens up your dinner table.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an additional layer of warmth and flavor to your meal while keeping things healthy.

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting minestrone soup! It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

This minestrone soup recipe is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and makes for delicious leftovers. Here’s how you can store it, freeze it, and reheat it for maximum enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider leaving the pasta out until you’re ready to serve; this helps prevent it from becoming mushy.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop: Pour the desired amount into a pot and heat over medium until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
• For microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stir occasionally during reheating to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making minestrone soup!

Can I make minestrone soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This minestrone soup is great for making ahead. The flavors meld beautifully when stored, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal on busy days.

What vegetables can I add to my minestrone soup?

Feel free to customize your minestrone soup with seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas. Just remember to chop them into bite-sized pieces!

How do I make my minestrone soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. Alternatively, add more pasta or beans!

Is minestrone soup healthy?

Yes! This minestrone soup is packed with vegetables and beans, making it a nutritious option full of fiber and protein. Enjoy guilt-free!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this comforting minestrone soup as much as I do! It’s not only nourishing but also versatile—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your thoughts after trying it out!