Minestrone Vegetable Soup

Minestrone vegetable soup is a hearty and comforting Italian classic, brimming with the goodness of seasonal vegetables, tender beans, and small pasta. This vibrant dish is seasoned with fragrant fresh herbs like parsley and basil, making it a nutritious and soul-warming meal that is perfect for any time of year.

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With a total time of just one hour, this recipe provides a healthy and satisfying dinner option that tastes even better as leftovers. The savory tomato-based broth ties together the textures of the zucchini, carrots, and potatoes for a truly balanced bowl of soup.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

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Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2

Add carrots, celery, zucchini, potato, and green beans. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3

Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, and water. Add dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 4

Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Add cannellini beans and pasta. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta and vegetables are tender.

Step 6

Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in fresh parsley and basil. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7

Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, use a high-quality large soup pot and a sharp chef's knife for uniform dicing of the vegetables. Sautéing the base aromatics like onion and garlic first is essential for building a deep, savory foundation for the broth. Always remember to discard the bay leaf before serving to ensure a smooth eating experience.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile; you can substitute the zucchini for other greens like spinach, kale, or cabbage based on seasonality. For a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. If you require a gluten-free meal, replace the standard pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety. For meat-eaters, adding pancetta with the onions provides a saltier, heartier depth.

Serviervorschläge

This minestrone vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm, crusty Italian bread, which is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a complete dining experience, serve it alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of Chianti to complement the Italian seasonings.

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Enjoy this nutritious and warming bowl of classic minestrone vegetable soup. Whether served as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, it is a timeless recipe that brings the authentic flavors of an Italian kitchen into your home.

Ideal for slow-simmered sauces, braised vegetables, baked dips, and cozy one-pot meals with even heat.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What vegetables work best in minestrone?

Classic choices include carrots, celery, zucchini, potatoes, and green beans. You can also add spinach, kale, cabbage, or whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shapes like corn-based ditalini or rice elbows. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long does this soup keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will absorb more liquid over time, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.

→ Can I freeze minestrone soup?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slightly undercook the pasta before freezing, as it will continue cooking when reheated. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

→ What pasta shapes are traditional?

Ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are classic choices. These small shapes hold up well during simmering and are easy to scoop up with each spoonful.

→ How can I add more protein?

Add extra cannellini beans, incorporate pancetta or bacon while sautéing the onions, or stir in some shredded chicken near the end of cooking time.