Cozy Minestrone Soup Recipe for a Chilly Day Delight

Minestrone soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, bursting with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine a steaming bowl filled with colorful carrots, green beans, and tender pasta, all enveloped in a savory broth that beckons you closer with its aromatic embrace.

Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a cozy family dinner, this minestrone soup recipe has the power to transform any moment into something special. It’s not just food; it’s a culinary experience that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of lazy Sundays spent at Grandma’s kitchen table.

I remember the first time I made this minestrone soup; my friends were blown away by how delicious it was! They even begged for seconds, which made me feel like a culinary superstar.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; ensure it’s finely chopped for even cooking.

• Carrots: Choose vibrant orange carrots; they add color and natural sweetness to the soup.

• Celery: Fresh celery gives crunch and balances the flavors; chop it evenly for consistent cooking.

• Zucchini: Opt for small, firm zucchinis; they cook quickly and maintain their texture beautifully.

• Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans bring freshness; trim them before adding to your pot.

• Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes in juice for added flavor; they create a lovely base for the broth.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt levels while enhancing the soup’s flavor.

• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni work best; they soak up the broth perfectly.

• Spinach or Kale: Add fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.

• Herbs (Basil & Oregano): Fresh herbs elevate flavors—add them during cooking for maximum aroma and taste.

• Salt & Pepper: Season generously but adjust according to your taste preferences throughout cooking.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, stirring until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add Zucchini and Green Beans: Toss in diced zucchini and trimmed green beans. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until they are bright and vibrant.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in canned tomatoes along with their juice and add vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all those gorgeous veggies into one flavorful liquid.

Add Pasta and Simmer: Bring mixture to a boil before adding pasta. Lower heat to simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Greens and Herbs: Stir in fresh spinach or kale along with basil and oregano. Cook until greens wilt down—just a few minutes will work wonders!

Taste Test & Season**: Finally, taste your masterpiece! Adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving hot in bowls garnished with more fresh herbs if desired.

Now you have created an enticing bowl of minestrone soup that not only warms your body but also nourishes your soul! Enjoy every spoonful packed with goodness—it’s like getting comfort food wrapped up in every bite.

You Must Know

• This minestrone soup recipe is perfect for a cozy evening
• Customize it based on seasonal vegetables and enjoy the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen
• It’s not just healthy; it’s a hug in a bowl, guaranteed to warm your heart and soul

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots until fragrant. Then, add broth and vegetables in stages for optimal flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand or add fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover minestrone soup in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors; they make all the difference in this minestrone soup recipe
• Don’t skip the herbs; they elevate the dish significantly
• If you want extra protein, add beans or cooked pasta before serving for a heartier meal

Cooking this minestrone soup brings back sweet memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and love were always simmering alongside her famous recipes.

FAQ

Can I make this minestrone soup recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and skip any cheese.

How long does minestrone soup last in the fridge?

It typically lasts about five days when stored properly.

What can I serve with minestrone soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Print

Hearty Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Warm up with this delightful minestrone soup that combines vibrant vegetables and tender pasta in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days or a cozy family dinner, this nutritious dish is not only easy to make but also customizable to fit your dietary needs. Enjoy the comforting flavors reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen, all while nourishing your soul with every spoonful.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes in juice
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in zucchini and green beans; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until bright.
3. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
5. Mix in spinach or kale along with basil and oregano; cook until greens are wilted (about 2 minutes).
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to swap vegetables based on what you have on hand. For added protein, consider incorporating cooked beans or lentils. This soup can easily be made vegan by omitting any cheese toppings.