There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty minestrone soup recipe to wrap you in comfort on a chilly day. I remember one particularly cold afternoon, I huddled by the stove, the aroma of simmering vegetables filling my kitchen, as I prepared this delightful dish. It’s amazing how this soup, with its roots in Italian cuisine, can be so versatile—each spoonful brimming with colorful veggies, beans, and a dash of pasta. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it your go-to for cozy nights.
Ingredients List
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How to Prepare the Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness! Making this hearty minestrone soup is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and the savory aroma of fresh vegetables. Here’s how you can whip up this comforting bowl of goodness step by step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by heating the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This oil is the base of your flavor, so let it warm up nicely.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 5–7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step is crucial for building the flavor foundation!
- Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. Be careful not to let it burn; we want it fragrant, not bitter!
- Now, stir in the diced zucchini and bell pepper, and let them cook for about 5 minutes. They’ll brighten up the soup and add a lovely texture.
- Time to bring everything together! Add the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, drained cannellini beans, and vegetable broth to the pot. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil, and give it a good stir. Bring this mixture to a boil—this is where all those flavors start to meld together.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will become tender, and the soup will thicken slightly.
- Add in the small pasta (like ditalini) and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your moment to make it just how you like it!
- Serve hot, and don’t forget to sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy. It adds a delightful creaminess that really elevates the soup!
And there you have it! This hearty minestrone soup is not only simple to prepare but also a feast for the senses. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy delight!
Nutritional Information Section
Before diving into the deliciousness, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness of this hearty minestrone soup. Keep in mind that the nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. But here’s a rough estimate per serving: you’re looking at about 250 calories, 7g of fat, 12g of protein, and 38g of carbohydrates. Plus, it’s packed with fiber—around 10g—making it a filling and healthy option. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to a wholesome meal that warms both the body and soul!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with nutritious vegetables, beans, and pasta for a satisfying meal.
- A great source of fiber and protein, keeping you full and energized.
- Versatile and customizable—switch up the veggies or add your favorite proteins!
- Freezes beautifully for future cozy nights when you need a quick meal.
- Perfect for batch cooking; you’ll have leftovers to enjoy all week long.
Tips for Success
To take your hearty minestrone soup to the next level, here are some expert tips! First, always sauté your vegetables until they’re just tender; this enhances their natural sweetness and flavor. Try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the veggies for an extra depth of richness. For a heartier texture, don’t hesitate to blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back in. And presentation is key—serve your soup in vibrant bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Trust me, these little touches make a big difference!
Variations of Hearty Minestrone Soup
One of the best things about this hearty minestrone soup recipe is its versatility! Feel free to get creative with seasonal vegetables—think squash in the fall or fresh peas in the spring. You can also switch up the beans; try black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, adding cooked sausage or crispy bacon can take this soup to the next level. And don’t forget about herbs! Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist. The possibilities are endless, so make this recipe your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your hearty minestrone soup, I absolutely love pairing it with some crusty bread—think a rustic sourdough or a warm baguette. Just imagine dipping that bread into the savory broth; it’s pure bliss! A fresh, vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette makes a delightful complement, adding a crunch and brightness to your meal. For a visually appealing presentation, serve the soup in deep bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. Trust me, your dinner guests will be captivated before they even take a bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your hearty minestrone soup is super simple! Once it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to life!
For more information on the health benefits of beans, check out this Healthline article. You’ll find that they are not only nutritious but also a great addition to any meal!
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of a plant-based diet, you can visit this NCBI article that discusses various health advantages.
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Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty minestrone soup recipe packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta for a filling meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in zucchini and bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add cooked sausage or bacon.
- Use seasonal vegetables for variety.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: hearty minestrone soup recipe
