Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

This Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a warm, hearty meal that’s loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick and nutritious dinner, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit your taste preferences. You can customize it with various veggies and seasonings, making it a fantastic option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, it’s a healthy choice that provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Customizable Flavor: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs to create a personalized flavor profile.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta and beans makes this soup satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for future quick meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-quart soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart soup pot: Provides ample space to cook all ingredients evenly without overflow.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly chopping veggies, ensuring uniform cooking times.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.

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Ingredients

This easy minestrone soup recipe is a hearty and healthy Italian-inspired dish packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for a comforting meal, it’s simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings.

Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, diced
• 3 medium celery ribs, diced
• 4 medium carrots, diced
• 3 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Canned Goods

• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can white cannellini beans, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, undrained

Broth & Seasoning

• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

Pasta & Greens

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni or shell pasta
• 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Base

Heat 2 tablespoons salted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large 6-quart soup pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add 1 medium diced white onion. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until soft. Then add:
– 3 diced celery ribs
– 4 diced carrots
– 3 diced zucchini

Cook these vegetables for about 8 to 10 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in 1 tablespoon minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes & Beans

Stir in:
– 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
– 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
– 1 (15 ounce) can white cannellini beans (undrained)
– 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans (undrained)

Pour in 6 cups vegetable broth along with:
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano

Bring mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add in:
– 8 ounces elbow macaroni or shell pasta

Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook at a low boil for about 10 to 12 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add Spinach & Serve

During the last two minutes of cooking, stir in:
– 1 cup roughly chopped baby spinach

Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with:
– Optional: sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving Easy Minestrone Soup is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to your taste. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas for serving it up:

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. Choose a rustic sourdough or a soft baguette for the best experience.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your minestrone with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds a burst of flavor and enhances the presentation.

With a Side Salad

• A light, crisp salad complements the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

Adding Cheese

• Sprinkle grated parmesan or a vegan cheese alternative on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving in Individual Bowls

• Present minestrone in individual bowls for a more personal touch. This makes it feel special and inviting at any gathering.

How to Perfect Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

To make your Easy Minestrone Soup even better, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish significantly.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh ingredients bring vibrant flavors. Opt for seasonal veggies to elevate your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If you plan to store leftovers, cook pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
• Add Variety: Experiment with different beans or vegetables like bell peppers or green beans to keep things exciting.
• Incorporate Greens: Adding greens like kale or Swiss chard can boost nutrition and add depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Let It Sit: Letting your soup sit for a few hours (or overnight) allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing taste.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Minestrone Soup can make the meal more satisfying. Here’s a list of delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: An easy-to-make classic that complements the flavors of minestrone perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A comforting combination that kids and adults alike will enjoy; use hearty bread for added crunch.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and additional nutrients; try zucchini or bell peppers seasoned simply.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and diced veggies provides nutrition alongside the soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: Offer olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables for variety and an Italian flair that complements the soup well.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and spices are filling and pair wonderfully with minestrone.
8. Focaccia Bread: Soft, herb-infused focaccia adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with the hearty flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your easy minestrone soup, avoiding common mistakes can help ensure a delicious outcome.

• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long at the beginning, they can become mushy. Aim for just enough time to soften them before adding the broth.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough herbs and spices can leave your soup bland. Be generous with basil and oregano for robust flavor.
• Using the wrong pasta type: Choosing a pasta that takes longer to cook can lead to overcooked ingredients. Opt for quick-cooking varieties like elbow macaroni or shell pasta.
• Not adjusting the liquid: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth. Conversely, if you like it soupy, don’t skimp on vegetable broth.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted or old vegetables will affect taste and texture. Always select fresh produce for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this easy minestrone soup recipe.

What vegetables can I add to my Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

You can customize your easy minestrone soup by adding vegetables like bell peppers, kale, or green beans based on your preferences.

Can I make Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegan option.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

The total time is about 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use different types of beans in this Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap cannellini or kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas for variety.

Final Thoughts

This easy minestrone soup recipe is not only hearty and healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy meals!