Cozy Minestrone Soup Recipe: A Warm Embrace in a Bowl

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of minestrone soup. Picture this: vibrant vegetables, savory broth, and tender pasta swirling together in a comforting embrace. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, with the aroma wrapping around you like your favorite blanket. Now, if that doesn’t make you want to dive into this delightful minestrone soup recipe, I don’t know what will.

I remember the first time I made minestrone soup for my friends during a cozy dinner party. The kitchen filled with the enticing scents of garlic and tomatoes, igniting curious inquiries and hungry bellies. By the end of the evening, not only were they raving about my cooking skills, but they were also asking for second servings—proof that this recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser!

I can still hear my friend Sarah exclaiming how she never thought soup could be so filling and flavorful!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Zucchini: Look for firm zucchini; they add a lovely texture and flavor burst to your soup.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color; slice them thinly for even cooking.

• Celery: Crisp celery adds crunch; choose stalks that are bright green and free from blemishes.

• Green Beans: Opt for fresh or frozen green beans; they provide a satisfying bite.

• Canned Tomatoes: Use whole or diced tomatoes; they form the rich base of your broth.

• Cannellini Beans: These creamy beans give body to the soup; rinse them well before adding.

• Pasta (like ditalini): Small pasta shapes work best; cook them just until al dente for optimal texture.

• Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade is always ideal!

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor tremendously; use it liberally for that aromatic kick.

• Fresh Herbs (like basil or parsley): Fresh herbs brighten up the flavors; chop finely before adding them at the end.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Minestrone Soup Recipe

Start by prepping your vegetables: Chop zucchini, carrots, celery, and green beans into bite-sized pieces. This step makes sure everything cooks evenly while maintaining those delightful textures.

Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute—then toss in chopped onions until they’re translucent.

Add Veggies: Now it’s time to add your chopped zucchini, carrots, celery, and green beans. Cook them for about five minutes until they start softening but still have some crunch left.

Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Add canned tomatoes (with juices) into the mix followed by vegetable broth. Stir well to combine; let it simmer gently while those flavors dance together.

Add Beans and Pasta: Once your mixture comes to a light boil, toss in rinsed cannellini beans and pasta. Allow everything to simmer for another ten minutes until pasta is al dente.

Finish with Fresh Herbs: Finally, stir in freshly chopped herbs just before serving to keep their vibrant flavor intact. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot alongside crusty bread or salad—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every sip of this hearty minestrone soup that feels like home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for aromatic bliss before adding veggies and broth. Simmer until tender, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add beans for protein. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors wonderfully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover minestrone soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Sharing my first bowl of minestrone soup with friends brought laughter and warmth on a chilly evening, showcasing how food brings people together.

FAQ

What vegetables work best in a minestrone soup recipe?

Zucchini, carrots, and spinach are great choices for vibrant flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based ingredients.

How long does minestrone soup last in the fridge?

It typically lasts about five days when stored properly in an airtight container.

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Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Minestrone soup is a heartwarming dish that combines vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. Enjoy each spoonful of flavor that warms the soul!

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Ingredients

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• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped for garnish
• 1 medium onion, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prep the vegetables by chopping zucchini, carrots, celery, and green beans into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for one minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in the zucchini, carrots, celery, and green beans; sauté for about five minutes until slightly softened.
5. Pour in canned tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Once simmering, add rinsed cannellini beans and ditalini pasta. Cook for another ten minutes until the pasta is al dente.
7. Stir in fresh herbs just before serving and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg