Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

This easy minestrone soup recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Loaded with vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta, it’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is simple to prepare and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This minestrone soup comes together in just one pot and requires minimal prep time.
• Nutrient-Packed: Bursting with vegetables and beans, it’s a wholesome option that keeps you energized.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Comforting Meal: Ideal for chilly nights, this soup warms you from the inside out.
• Leftover Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills when stirring.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision in measuring ensures balanced flavors in your minestrone soup.

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Ingredients

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 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

Tomatoes & Beans

• 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 & Seasonings

• 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

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

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add 1 medium diced white onion to the pot. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions start to soften. Then incorporate 3 diced celery ribs, 4 diced carrots, and 3 diced zucchini. Continue cooking for another 8 to 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes & Beans

Add in the undrained contents of one can each of diced tomatoes (28 ounces), tomato sauce (15 ounces), white cannellini beans (15 ounces), kidney beans (15 ounces), along with the vegetable broth (6 cups). Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon each of dried basil and oregano. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni or shell pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to simmer at a low boil for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Finish with Greens

During the last two minutes of cooking time, stir in 1 cup of roughly chopped baby spinach until wilted.

Step 7: Season & Serve

Finally, season your minestrone soup with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top if desired.

How to Serve Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving Easy Minestrone Soup is all about enhancing its comforting and hearty flavors. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tasty dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread complements the soup’s rich broth perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of color and flavor. This garnish enhances the overall presentation and taste.

Pairing with Salad

• Enjoy alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing balance. A light vinaigrette can elevate the meal to new heights.

Adding Extra Protein

• Consider adding grilled chicken or turkey on top for those who want an extra protein boost. This makes the dish even more filling and nutritious.

Drizzling with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving can enhance the flavors. It adds richness and depth to each bowl.

How to Perfect Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Easy Minestrone Soup, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and texture than canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving, and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to suit your palate.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables for variety. Kale, green beans, or bell peppers work well.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook pasta separately if you plan on storing leftovers. This keeps it from getting mushy when reheating.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, ensuring you enjoy this delicious meal again.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Minestrone Soup can create a more satisfying dining experience. Here are some wonderful options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that tasty broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a nice contrast in textures.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a bright flavor that complements the soup’s heartiness.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting side that pairs well with soups.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add sweetness and depth, enhancing the meal’s health factor.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains or beans offer an additional protein source while being visually appealing.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables makes a nutritious complement to your soup.
8. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs can round out your meal nicely while absorbing any remaining broth flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an easy minestrone soup recipe can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.

• Skipping the sauté – Don’t skip sautéing the vegetables first. This builds a deeper flavor base for your soup.
• Overcooking the pasta – Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Cook it just until tender to maintain a nice bite.
• Not seasoning properly – Failing to season your soup can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Ignoring fresh herbs – Neglecting fresh herbs at the end can diminish flavor complexity. Always add them toward the end for vibrant taste.
• Using low-quality broth – A poor-quality broth can ruin your soup. Use high-quality vegetable broth for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about this easy minestrone soup recipe.

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

It takes about 50 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time.

Can I customize my Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand.

What type of pasta is best for Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Elbow macaroni or shell pasta works well, but you can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Is Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with vegetables and legumes, making it a nutritious option.

Final Thoughts

This easy minestrone soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and beans based on your preferences. It’s perfect for meal prep or enjoying on a cozy evening. Give it a try and savor the flavors!