Classic Italian Minestrone Soup
Description:
Italian Minestrone Soup is a hearty, rustic, and nutrient-packed vegetable soup rooted in Italian tradition. This comforting one-pot dish features seasonal vegetables, beans, pasta, and a rich tomato-based broth seasoned with herbs. It’s perfect as a wholesome lunch, dinner starter, or even a main meal when served with crusty bread.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 6)
Vegetables:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
2 cups spinach or kale (fresh or frozen)
1 (400g) can diced tomatoes
Broth Base:
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 (400g) can cannellini or kidney beans, drained
1 cup small pasta (elbow, ditalini, or shells)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of red chili flakes
Garnish (optional):
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil
Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
Sauté the base:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
Add garlic & veggies:
Stir in minced garlic, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Add liquids & seasonings:
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer:
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add pasta & beans:
Stir in pasta and beans. Cook for 8-10 minutes more until pasta is al dente.
Add greens:
In the last 2 minutes, add spinach or kale. Stir until wilted.
Serve hot:
Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Nutrient Amount
Calories 240 kcal
Protein 9 g
Carbohydrates 38 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Sugars 7 g
Fat 7 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Sodium 580 mg
Cholesterol 0 mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and pasta type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this minestrone soup gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with cooked rice or quinoa.
Q2: Can I add meat?
A: Traditional minestrone is vegetarian, but you can add cooked sausage, pancetta, or chicken for a non-vegetarian version.
Q3: How long does it keep?
A: It lasts 4–5 days in the fridge. Store without pasta for best texture. Reheat and add cooked pasta when serving.
Q4: Can it be frozen?
A: Absolutely. Freeze without the pasta for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
Q5:Can I use canned vegetables or beans?
A: Yes, canned beans work well. Use low-s
dium versions and rinse before adding