Homemade Minestrone Soup Recipe: Easy & Delicious
Minestrone soup is a hearty and flavorful Italian vegetable soup that's perfect for any time of year. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This homemade minestrone soup recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to your liking, making it a staple in your kitchen. — Blue Jays Game: Schedule, Results, And Highlights
Why You'll Love This Minestrone Soup Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables, beans, and fiber.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and pasta.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients, making it a great meal option.
- Delicious: A comforting and flavorful soup that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How to Make Minestrone Soup: Step-by-Step
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring to a simmer.
- Add Beans and Seasonings: Stir in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Simmer and Serve: Simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Minestrone Soup
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables add the best flavor to your soup. Consider adding zucchini, spinach, or kale for extra nutrients.
- Customize the Beans: Feel free to use different types of beans, such as Great Northern beans or chickpeas.
- Add a Parmesan Rind: For extra flavor, add a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers. Remove the rind before serving.
- Make It Vegetarian/Vegan: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Omit the Parmesan cheese for a vegan option.
Variations to Try
- Pesto Minestrone: Stir in a spoonful of pesto before serving for added flavor.
- Spicy Minestrone: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Hearty Minestrone: Add small cubes of potatoes or sweet potatoes to make it even heartier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious minestrone soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. It’s also great as a starter or a light meal on its own. Enjoy! — Marcus Oher: His Life, Career, And Impact
Call to Action
Ready to try this easy and delicious minestrone soup recipe? Gather your ingredients and get cooking! Share your creations with friends and family, and don't forget to tag us on social media! — Jay Shetty & Emma Watson: Inspiring Podcast