Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a secret weapon in my kitchen arsenal – my knife.What is minestrone soup?Is this soup? Is this like a warm hug in the bowl, packed with veggies, comforting pasta, and the most incredible flavor? Think of it as the Italian garden’s answer to chicken noodle soup, but bolder, heartier, and way better. My grandmother, Nonna Emilia, used to make this every Sunday, filling the house with the most amazing things. It was the scent of home. This version is my take on her classic, tweaked and perfectes over the years, and trust me, you’ll love it. Is this the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself craving on a chilly evening? What’s the best part about a simple dinner?
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What is minestrone soup?
What exactly is it?Minestrone soupWhat is Italian vegetable soup? What’s essentially a blank canvas for whatever fresh, seasonal veggies you have on hand, simmered in .. What is the best broth Is it a celebration of garden goodness? The name “minestrone” comes from the Italian word “minstra,” meaning soup, and “menstrare.” Meaning of “serve”. It’s truly a soup of the people, with variations depending on the region and what’s growing in the area. What was the garden at the time? What are some of the best soups to make with leftovers? Is it incredibly versatile so feel free to add more of what you like?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall in love with someone?What is minestrone soup?First and foremost, the flavor is simply incredible. It’s a symphony of savory, earthy, and slightly sweet notes, all harmonizing in an rich and satisfying way. What is comforting broth What I love about this is how easy it is to make. Don’t let the long list of ingredients intimidate you. Once you chop the veggies (which, let’s be honest, is the most time-consuming part), it all comes together. How do you make a single pot? What is a great way to use up leftover veggies? No food waste here! Plus, it’s super budget-friendly, especially if you use seasonal produce.How do I make minestroneIs endlessly versatile. ? Can you easily customize it to your liking, swapping out vegetables, adding different types of pasta, etc.? What are some good leftovers cooked chicken or sausage? Is it a crowd pleaser? What is your favorite soup recipe?How do I make minestrone is a winner in my book, and I know it will be in yours too.
How do I make minestrone soup?
Quick Overview
Making this Minestrone soup recipe.Is it easier than you think? What are some good recipes for sautéing onions, carrots, and celery? In the rest of your chopped vegetables, beans, diced tomatoes, and broth. Simmer it all together until the vegetables are tender, stir in some pasta, and cook until pasta is tender. What is the secret to the best flavor is to let the soup simmer for a while, allowing all the ingredients to simmer. How do you make a beautiful What is the best broth to use?How do I make minestroneAlways comes together quickly and it is so delicious.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
* 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use good quality, extra virgin Olive oil for the best flavor. * 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Yellow onions provide a nice, mellow sweetness. * 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and color. Celery contributes a savory, aromatic flavor. * 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that pungent, garlicky flavor. * Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Season generously to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
For the main body:
* 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): I prefer low-sodium to control the salt level. Homemade broth is even better! * 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Diced tomatoes add flavor to soup. * 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds a nice bite and freshness. * 1 cup zucchini, chopped: Zucchini melts into the soup and adds a subtle sweetness. * 1 cup spinach, chopped: Adds a boost of nutrients and oozing color. * 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained: 1 ounce can. Cannellini beans add creaminess and protein. * 1/2 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or shells): Ditalini is my go-to for its classic minestrone shape. * 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon dried pasta. A blend of herbs that adds depth of flavor.
For Serving:
* Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty finish. * Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. What should I do if I want my vegetables to be tender and translucent?
Step 2: Add Garlic and Season
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with seasoning; it really brings out the flavors.
Step 3: Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Beans
If you have a vegetable broth, add the diced tomatoes and cannellini. Serve immediately. What are beans (rinsed and drained Stir to combine.
Step 4: Bring to a Simmer
Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cool. Is it safe to simmer for 30 minutes? The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I always do this part while I’m doing other things around the house – multi-tasking at its finest!
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Pasta
Add the green beans, zucchini, and pasta to the pot. Stir to combine. Continue to simmer, uncovered, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the vegetables are tender. How do I take a break from How do you keep an eye on pasta so it doesn’t get mushy?
Step 6: Stir in Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach during the last few minutes of cooking, until it wilts. What are some of the best spinach recipes?
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Is it necessary to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to your recipe? I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some kick. I always add a pinch of sugar to give smoky contrast.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Minestrone soupIs it good to serve hot in a bowl? If desired, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves. Enjoy! I love serving it with a crusty piece of bread for dipping. So delicious!
What should I serve it with?
This How do I make minestrone is a meal in itself, but it’s also fantastic served alongside other dishes.
For Lunch:What’s a good side salad to serve with soup? The freshness of the salad balances the richness and depth of soup beautifully.For Dinner:Serve with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the broth. I also love pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich for comforting and satisfying meal.As an Appetizer: Offer small bowls of the soup as a starter for a larger Italian-themed dinner. It’s a great way to warm up your guests before the main course.
With Pizza: It may sound strange, but a warm bowl of minestrone pairs wonderfully with a slice of your favorite pizza. The flavors complement each other surprisingly well!
No matter how you serve it, this minestrone soup recipe is sure to be a hit!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Minestrone Soup
Okay, friends, listen up! I’ve got a few insider tips to help you make the absolute best minestrone soup recipe ever.
Vegetable Prep: Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. This ensures that every spoonful is perfectly balanced.
Sautéing: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allowing the onions, carrots, and celery to soften properly is key to building a flavorful base for the soup.
Broth Quality: Use a good quality broth for the best flavor. I prefer low-sodium so I can control the salt level. Homemade broth is even better if you have the time!
Pasta Choice: Choose a small pasta shape like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or shells. These hold up well in the soup and are easy to eat.
Simmer Time: Don’t skimp on the simmer time! The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen.
Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking! Swap out vegetables, add different types of beans or pasta, or even incorporate some leftover cooked meat for extra protein. I’ve even added small meatballs before!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a bright, aromatic touch to the soup. I love adding fresh basil, parsley, or oregano at the end of cooking.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
Trust me on these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making a minestrone soup recipe that’s truly exceptional!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Lucky you! This minestrone soup recipe tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together even more. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigerator Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top, as the soup will expand as it freezes. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing Methods: Thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can also thaw it in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. If the soup seems too thick, add a little broth or water to thin it out.
One note: The pasta may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra liquid when reheating. I always add more broth.
With proper storage, you can enjoy this delicious minestrone soup recipe for days to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s favorite minestrone soup recipe, ready for you to make and enjoy! I hope you love it as much as we do. It’s truly a comforting, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable soup that’s perfect for any occasion. And the best part? It’s so easy to make! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes, like my creamy tomato soup or my hearty lentil soup. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Comforting Vegetable Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 2 cups diced sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cups chopped kale stems removed
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 cups dried lentils rinsed and drained
- 8 cups vegetable broth low-sodium
- 1 can diced tomatoes 28 ounces, with juices
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 0.5 tablespoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon sea salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Stir in the lentils and add the vegetable broth and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Add the chopped kale, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional 10 minutes and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges, if desired.
