Name: Comforting Italian Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup small pasta (orzo or ditalini); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

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Comforting Italian Minestrone Soup 🍲🇮🇹✨

1. Introduction

Nothing beats a bowl of Italian minestrone soup on a chilly day. This hearty vegetable soup is a perfect combination of fresh seasonal vegetables, pasta, beans, and herbs, simmered to perfection to create a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to warm your soul, this vegetable soup recipe is your go-to. The beauty of Italian minestrone lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it an ideal holiday treat or a simple everyday meal.

2. Ingredients for Classic Italian Minestrone Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbows)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Preparing Italian Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and chop zucchini and green beans into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture in your vegetable soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, enhancing the flavor base for your hearty Italian minestrone soup.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped zucchini and green beans. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to begin softening.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Beans

Add the vegetable broth and drained cannellini beans to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop fully. This step creates a flavorful and comforting vegetable soup.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Add the small pasta to the simmering soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, ensuring your hearty vegetable soup maintains a perfect texture.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your Italian minestrone soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. For extra richness, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

4. How to Store and Reheat Leftover Italian Minestrone Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to restore the desired consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions for Comforting Vegetable Soup

This hearty and vegetable soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, like a warm baguette or a slice of holiday bread. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve with a fresh green salad and a glass of your favorite red wine. Top with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor.

6. Tips for Personalizing Your Italian Minestrone Soup

Substitute the beans with chickpeas or lentils for variation.
Add leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
For a vegetarian version, ensure you’re using a veggie-based broth.

To make it vegan, omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Explore different pasta shapes for a fun twist.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Minestrone Soup

Can I make the minestrone soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What are the best substitutions for vegetables?

You can customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or your preferences. Peas, potatoes, or zucchini all work well in minestrone.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

The entire process takes approximately 40-45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick but satisfying vegetable soup meal.

Is minestrone soup suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes. Just use gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta altogether for a hearty vegetable soup that’s safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Equip your kitchen with durable pots perfect for simmering and sautéing this Italian minestrone soup with ease.

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — While not essential for this soup, it’s excellent for side dishes or quick reheats.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker — Perfect for a warming cup of coffee to enjoy alongside your soup.
KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — Useful if you plan to make homemade pasta to serve with your minestrone.

These tools will enhance your cooking experience, making the process easier and more enjoyable while ensuring your italian minestrone soup turns out perfect every time.

9. Conclusion

Creating a comforting Italian minestrone soup is both simple and rewarding. With fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a hearty vegetable soup that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Plus, its versatility allows you to adapt it to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this vegetable soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your delicious, wholesome bowl of comfort!

Comforting Italian Minestrone Soup