Save Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this hearty Minestrone Soup. Brimming with a vibrant array of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and protein-rich beans, this recipe offers a wholesome and comforting meal that is as nourishing as it is delicious. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it brings the warmth of traditional Mediterranean cooking right to your kitchen.
Save Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a satisfying main course, this soup delivers on every level. The combination of aromatic herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme creates a fragrant broth that perfectly complements the zucchini, carrots, and spinach. It is a timeless classic that appeals to both adults and children alike.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup baby spinach or chopped kale
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3/4 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, elbow)
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) cannellini or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in garlic, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Step 3
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 4
- Add pasta and beans. Cook for 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
- Step 5
- Stir in spinach (or kale) and parsley. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until greens are wilted.
- Step 6
- Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a large soup pot and a wooden spoon ensures even cooking as you sauté the base vegetables. To achieve the best texture, be careful not to overcook the pasta; keeping it al dente allows it to hold up well in the hot broth without becoming mushy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is easily adaptable for different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta. You can also substitute the zucchini or green beans with other seasonal vegetables like peas or squash. For a vegan-friendly meal, ensure your vegetable broth is certified vegan.
Serviervorschläge
For an extra touch of richness, top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This soup is best enjoyed when served alongside warm, crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious, herb-infused tomato broth.
Save Enjoy the vibrant colors and wholesome flavors of this Italian staple. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this Minestrone Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Gather your loved ones and savor every spoonful of this delicious, home-cooked meal.
Recipe Help
- → Can I make minestrone soup in advance?
Absolutely. Minestrone actually develops deeper flavors when made ahead. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will absorb some liquid, so add extra broth when reheating if needed.
- → What vegetables work best in minestrone?
Traditional minestrone includes onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes. Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like cabbage, potatoes, or butternut squash. The key is cutting everything into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- → How do I prevent pasta from getting mushy?
Cook pasta separately and add it just before serving, or slightly undercook the pasta directly in the soup since it will continue absorbing liquid. Alternatively, use smaller pasta shapes like ditalini that hold their texture well.
- → Can minestrone be frozen?
Yes, freeze minestrone for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
- → What's the difference between minestrone and other vegetable soups?
Minestrone specifically includes pasta and beans, making it more substantial than typical vegetable soups. The tomato-based broth with Italian herbs gives it that characteristic Mediterranean flavor profile that distinguishes it from other clear or cream-based soups.
- → Is minestrone suitable for meal prep?
Perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch on Sunday and portion it for lunches throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully over time, and it reheats easily in the microwave or on the stovetop.