Homemade Minestrone Soup Recipe – A Hearty Delight for All! 2024

Welcome to my kitchen, where we’ll be whipping up a comforting bowl of homemade Minestrone Soup! But first things first, what exactly is Minestrone? Well, it’s an Italian vegetable soup that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Pronounced “min-eh-stroh-nee,” this hearty dish is a celebration of fresh veggies, beans, and pasta in a flavorful broth. Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s dive into the kitchen and get cooking!

Minestrone Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 cup small pasta (like elbows or shells)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Making Minestrone:

• Sauté the Aromatics:
  • Start by placing a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Once the oil is heated, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic.
  • Sauté these ingredients until they become tender and fill the kitchen with a delightful aroma. This usually takes about 5 minutes.

• Build the Base:
  • Throw the diced zucchini and green beans to the pot. Stir them in with the sautéed aromatics.
  • Allow these veggies to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften, contributing to the rich base of your soup.
• Add the Tomatoes and Beans:
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes and the drained and rinsed cannellini beans.
  • Ensure all the ingredients are well-mixed, letting them simmer together for a few minutes to enhance the overall flavor.

• Season it Up:
  • Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil to infuse the soup with savory herbs.
  • Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Give everything a good stir to distribute the flavors evenly.

• Pour in the Broth:
  • Here comes the broth! Add 6 cups of vegetable broth to the pot.
  • Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This simmering period allows the various flavors to meld and create a deliciously harmonious broth.

• Toss in the Pasta:
  • Toss the small pasta (such as elbows or shells) to the pot. Stir it in and let it cook until it reaches the desired al dente texture. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
  • Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

• Serve and Enjoy:
  • Ladle the hot Minestrone Soup into bowls, and your culinary masterpiece is ready to be enjoyed!
  • For an extra savory touch, top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

• Storage:
  • Leftover Minestrone Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra broth if the soup has thickened.

Yield, Prep Time and Calories

• Yield: This Minestrone Soup recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Prep Time: The preparation time for this homemade Minestrone is around 15-20 minutes.
• Calories: The calorie content of each serving of Soup Minestrone will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. On average, a bowl of this soup ranges from 150 to 250 calories per serving.

Yield	Prep Time	Calories (Approx. per serving)
6 servings	15-20 minutes	150-250 calories

What to Serve With Minestrone Soup:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette is a classic choice. It’s perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth and mopping up every last bit of goodness.
• Garlic Bread: Elevate your bread game by adding a garlicky twist. Toasted garlic bread brings an extra layer of flavor that complements the hearty nature of Minestrone Soup
• Side Salad: A crisp and refreshing side salad is a fantastic contrast to the rich and robust flavors of the soup. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a Mediterranean salad for added variety.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: There’s something timeless about the combination of Minestrone Soup and a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The cheesy goodness pairs wonderfully with the warmth of the soup.
• Parmesan Crisps: These crispy, cheesy delights add a crunchy texture to your meal. They’re easy to make and provide a satisfying contrast to the soup’s soft and comforting elements.
• Antipasto Platter: For a more substantial option, serve an antipasto platter with an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. It’s a great way to turn your soup into a Mediterranean feast.
• Focaccia Bread: If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try serving Minestrone Soup with a side of homemade or store-bought focaccia. The soft, herbed bread complements the soup beautifully.

There you have it – a simple, delicious Minestrone Soup that’s perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of this Italian classic!

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