Cozy Italian Classic Minestrone Soup

© Original Recipe By Serena’s Flavor Lab ©

Cozy Italian Classic Minestrone Soup 🥣🌿🍅

1. Introduction

Welcome to the world of minestrone soup, a hearty Italian vegetable soup that captures the essence of comfort food. This Italian soup is perfect for cold evenings or whenever you crave a nourishing, flavorful dish that is both simple and satisfying. Known as a vegetable soup loaded with seasonal produce, beans, pasta, and herbs, minestrone is a versatile hearty stew that can be adapted to your taste and pantry.

This cozy Italian classic recipe brings together fresh vegetables, rich flavors, and tender pasta, making it the perfect vegetable soup for meal prep or family dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe will walk you through each step to create an authentic and delicious bowl of minestrone.

2. Ingredients for This Delicious Minestrone Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or small shells)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Best Minestrone Soup

Harbor the Flavors: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. This forms a flavorful base for your Italian soup.

Sauté Aromatics and Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Garlic adds a punch of aroma and depth to this hearty stew.

Include the Vegetables and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped zucchini and green beans. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, and cook for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.

Pour the Broth and Season

Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth or homemade stock. Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.

Simmer and Add Beans and Pasta

Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. Add the cannellini beans and small pasta. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step transforms your vegetable soup into a hearty stew.

Final Touches and Serving

Taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the Italian soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for the ideal meal.

4. Storage Tips for Your Minestrone Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

5. Serving Suggestions and Variations

This hearty stew pairs beautifully with toasted slices of bread, garlic bread, or a crisp side salad. For added richness, stir in a dollop of pesto or a splash of good olive oil just before serving. You can also customize this vegetable soup by adding seasonal vegetables, kale, spinach, or even small chunks of cooked chicken for extra protein.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Minestrone Soup

Can I make minestrone soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and omit any cheese or animal-based ingredients. For added protein, include plant-based options like lentils or chickpeas instead of beans.

Can I substitute different vegetables in this Italian soup?

Yes, feel free to swap out or add vegetables such as kale, cabbage, peas, or zucchini based on what’s in season or your preference. This flexibility makes minestrone a perfect vegetable soup for various tastes.

How long does it take to prepare this hearty stew?

From start to finish, it takes about 40-45 minutes, making this a quick and satisfying hearty stew for busy weeknights.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! The flavors deepen as it sits. Prepare ahead, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve for an even more delicious Italian soup.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Having the right tools can make preparing your minestrone soup easier and more enjoyable. Check out some highly recommended gadgets:

• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Perfect for making quick sides or grilled bread to serve alongside your soup.
• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – A versatile appliance to prepare crispy garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your pots and pans are durable and non-stick for easy cooking and cleanup.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer – Handy for mixing dough or preparing pasta, if you prefer homemade noodles.

8. Tips for the Perfect Minestrone Soup

• Use fresh seasonal vegetables for maximum flavor.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
• Let the soup rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.
• Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

9. Conclusion

This cozy Italian classic minestrone soup is a celebration of fresh vegetables, robust flavors, and comforting textures. Perfect for any season, this vegetable soup provides a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s easily customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this hearty stew will never disappoint. Dive into the vibrant flavors of Italy and enjoy every spoonful of this wholesome italian soup.

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