Warm, wholesome, and brimming with nutrients, minestrone soup is a beloved Italian staple that offers a perfect balance of flavor and health. This comforting dish is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family meal or a nutritious lunch. With its rich blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta, every spoonful is a celebration of seasonal produce and hearty goodness.
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 180 calories, 3g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 8g protein, and 6g fiber. This nutritional value is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add zucchini and green beans; cook for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add kidney beans and pasta; cook until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the pasta with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version. Additionally, feel free to use seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas.
Serving and Pairings
Minestrone soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover minestrone soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta; add it towards the end of cooking.
- Not seasoning adequately; taste and adjust as needed.
- Using canned beans without rinsing; always rinse to reduce sodium.
- Skipping fresh herbs; they enhance flavor significantly.
- Not sautéing vegetables enough; ensure they are softened for best taste.
Helpful Tips
- Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Experiment with different beans for variety.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I make minestrone soup ahead of time?
Yes, minestrone soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even tastier.
What types of vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Common additions include spinach, peas, or bell peppers. The key is to use a variety of colors and textures.
Is minestrone soup healthy?
Absolutely! Minestrone soup is packed with vegetables, beans, and whole grains, making it a nutritious option. It’s low in calories and high in fiber.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. It will add a different flavor profile.
How long does minestrone soup last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, minestrone soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Minestrone soup is a versatile, nutritious dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce all year round.
Minestrone Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 zucchini chopped
- 1 cup green beans trimmed and chopped
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta like ditalini
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add zucchini and green beans; cook for another 3 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add kidney beans and pasta; cook until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
