Why Make This Recipe
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that is not only hearty but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a great way to use up whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any time of the year.
This soup warms you up in the winter and refreshes you in the summer. With its rich broth and vibrant colors, minestrone soup brings comfort to the table, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Equipment Needed for Minestrone Soup
To make the perfect minestrone soup, you will need some basic kitchen equipment.
Having a sturdy pot or Dutch oven is essential for even cooking and to hold all the ingredients. A chopping board and a good knife will make preparing your ingredients easy and efficient.
Lastly, a ladle will help serve the soup into bowls without making a mess.
What You Need to Make Minestrone Soup
- 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 medium gold potato, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 28-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped into small cubes
- 1 15-ounce can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups spinach
- 1 cup ditalini pasta or small shell pasta
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How to Cook Minestrone Soup Step by Step
To start making minestrone soup, heat 1 Tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in your pot. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and potato. Cook these vegetables for about 7 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step forms the base of your soup.
Next, introduce garlic along with dried basil, thyme, and oregano. Sauté these for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromatic flavors.
After that, pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes along with sea salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, lower the heat to medium-low, and cover the pot. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes.
Once the time is up, carefully remove the lid and stir in the green beans, chopped zucchini, kidney beans, and your choice of pasta. Allow this to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-12 minutes. The pasta should reach al dente, and the vegetables should become tender during this time.
After simmering, take the pot off the heat. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before stirring in the fresh spinach, lemon juice, and the remaining olive oil. Taste your soup and feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if desired.
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Your minestrone soup is now ready to enjoy!
How to Make Minestrone Soup
Making minestrone soup is a straightforward and joyful process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepare them as mentioned. Having everything ready will make cooking easier.
Always remember to cook the base vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery until they are soft and fragrant. This is crucial, as it adds deep flavor to your soup.
As you add in the beans and pasta, stir them well so they cook evenly. Paying attention at this stage helps in achieving a balanced texture. Lastly, serving the soup with fresh herbs and cheese enhances its taste and appearance.
How to Serve Minestrone Soup
Serving minestrone soup is easy and fun. You can ladle the soup into deep bowls for a hearty meal, or use smaller bowls for a lighter serving.
Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. This adds a beautiful touch and extra flavor.
It’s also lovely served with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Ensure that you give your guests a spoon and napkins, as this soup is best enjoyed warm, and it can be a bit messy.
What to Serve with Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup can stand alone as a meal, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance your dining experience.
Consider serving it with a slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette. These sides are perfect for dipping into the delicious broth.
A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup. Incorporating some cheese into the salad can harmonize the flavors wonderfully.
How to Store Minestrone Soup
Storing minestrone soup is simple and convenient. Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container.
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it in freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as the soup freezes.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick after being refrigerated or frozen.
Tips to Make Minestrone Soup
Making minestrone soup can be enhanced with a few tips. First, try to use seasonal vegetables. This ensures fresh flavors and vibrant colors in your soup.
Don’t rush the sautéing process – taking time to soften the onions and other base veggies will significantly increase the depth of flavor.
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you enjoy a little heat, add more red pepper flakes. For a more earthy taste, consider using fresh herbs if available.
Variation
One great aspect of minestrone soup is its versatility. You can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have.
For a meatier version, you can add cooked Italian sausage or diced chicken. Another option is throwing in different beans, like black beans or cannellini beans, to change up the texture.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta altogether and add more vegetables instead.
Best Time to Make Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is excellent for any season. However, it shines in the fall and winter when warm foods are comforting.
It’s particularly suited for chilly days when you crave something hearty and filling. Preparing it at the end of the week can also make for easy lunch or dinner options during busy weekdays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making minestrone soup is easy, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
One mistake is overcooking the pasta. Make sure to add it at the right time to ensure it does not become mushy.
Another common error is not seasoning adequately. Always taste your soup and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.
Lastly, neglecting the use of fresh herbs can lead to a less vibrant taste. Try to incorporate fresh herbs whenever possible for an aromatic finish.
Nutritional Notes
Minestrone soup is not just delicious but also nutritious. Packed with a variety of vegetables, it provides vitamins and minerals essential for good health.
The beans contribute protein and fiber, making this soup filling and satisfying.
Additionally, with low-sodium vegetable broth and fresh ingredients, you can control the amount of salt and preservatives in your meal, promoting a healthier choice overall.
FAQs
What makes minestrone soup different from other soups?
Minestrone soup is known for its thick consistency and variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it heartier than many other soups.
Can I make minestrone soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can put all the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook for several hours. Just add the greens and pasta towards the end to keep them fresh.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, using frozen vegetables is acceptable. They can save time, and they retain most of their nutrients. However, fresh vegetables will usually give you better texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Minestrone soup is a nourishing and satisfying dish that embodies comfort food. Easy to prepare and adaptable, it offers flexibility in terms of ingredient choice, allowing you to use what you have on hand.
Whether you enjoy it as a cozy meal on a cold day or a light dish in warmer seasons, minestrone soup is sure to please everyone. Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful taste and heartwarming aromas it brings to your kitchen!
