Minestrone Vegetable Soup

A hearty and comforting Italian soup brimming with seasonal vegetables, beans, pasta, and fragrant fresh herbs—perfect for any time of year. This Minestrone Vegetable Soup is the ultimate soul-warming dish that brings the rustic flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen table.

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Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a filling dinner, this versatile soup delivers satisfaction in every spoonful. The combination of slow-simmered vegetables and savory broth creates a depth of flavor that only improves with time.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 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 can diced tomatoes (14 oz / 400 g, with juices), 4 cups vegetable broth, 2 cups water.
• Beans & Pasta: 1 can cannellini beans (15 oz / 425 g, drained and rinsed), 3/4 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni).
• Seasonings & Herbs: 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).
• Garnish: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional).

Mix batters, prep ingredients, grate vegetables, and store leftovers easily during baking and everyday cooking.

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Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large soup 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

Using a large soup pot and a high-quality chef's knife makes the preparation of these fresh vegetables much easier. Remember to stir occasionally with a wooden spoon to ensure the pasta doesn't stick to the bottom during the final simmering stage.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. You can substitute vegetables based on seasonality, such as adding spinach, kale, or cabbage. For a heartier soup, consider adding pancetta with the onions or extra beans for more protein.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs exceptionally well with a side of warm, crusty Italian bread and a glass of Chianti. It is also an excellent option for meal prepping as the flavors meld and deepen when stored in the refrigerator.

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Enjoy this wholesome, vibrant Italian classic that brings the best of the garden to your table. Simple, delicious, and deeply nourishing, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Whisk eggs, batters, sauces, and cream smoothly for baking, cooking, and everyday meal prep.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What vegetables work best in minestrone?

Traditional options include carrots, celery, zucchini, potatoes, and green beans. You can also add spinach, kale, cabbage, or seasonal produce based on availability.

→ Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties like rice-based corn pasta. The soup remains just as flavorful and satisfying.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta may absorb more liquid over time—add extra broth when reheating if needed.

→ 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 to soften when reheated.

→ What can I serve with minestrone?

Crusty Italian bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad complement this soup beautifully. A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio makes an excellent pairing.

→ Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this version is vegetarian using vegetable broth. For vegan, simply omit the Parmesan garnish or use a plant-based alternative.