Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup Recipe

© Original recipe by The Pantry Post ©

Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup Recipe 🥣🍅🌿

1. Introduction

Welcome to a warm and nourishing bowl of Italian minestrone soup, a classic Italian soup bursting with hearty vegetables, beans, and pasta. This savory vegetable soup is perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep, offering a comforting experience with every spoonful. Known for its flexibility and rich flavors, the hearty vegetable soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to what you have on hand. Let’s dive into making this delightful, healthy, and satisfying soup that truly embodies the essence of traditional Italian cuisine.

2. Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Minestrone Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup small pasta shapes (like ditalini or elbow)
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hearty Italian Minestrone Soup

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Garlic and Add Tomatoes

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes to enhance the flavor base of your classic Italian soup.

Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the vegetable broth, then stir in dried oregano, basil, a bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes to meld all the flavors into a hearty vegetable soup.

Cook the Pasta and Vegetables

Add the small pasta shapes to the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. During the last 5 minutes, add the diced zucchini and chopped greens to make the soup even more nourishing.

Finish with Beans and Herbs

Stir in the cannellini beans and chopped kale or spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens wilt and everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

4. Storing and Reheating Tips for Leftover Soups

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. For convenience, portion into individual servings for quick meals.

5. Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve your italian minestrone soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a slice of crusty baguette for a fulfilling meal. For an extra protein boost, add cooked chicken or sausage. You can also swap out greens like kale for spinach or even add cooked pasta or rice for more texture. This vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad on the side.

6. FAQs about Hearty Italian Soup

Can I make this soup vegan or gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth to keep it vegan and substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free. This hearty vegetable soup can easily accommodate various dietary needs.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes. Most of the active time involves chopping vegetables and simmering the soup.

What substitutions can I make?

You can swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge. For instance, celery can be replaced with fennel, or zucchini with yellow squash. Beans like kidney or chickpeas can be used instead of cannellini beans for variation.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for making your soup base.
• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — Useful for preparing crispy toppings or side dishes.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Perfect for cooking additional ingredients or quick reheats.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange — Handy for kneading dough if you decide to serve homemade bread alongside.

8. Tips to Elevate Your Italian Minestrone

• Add a splash of good quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving for a rich finish.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a more vibrant flavor.
• Introduce a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors.
• For a more filling meal, top with cooked pasta, rice, or even potatoes.

9. Conclusion

This italian minestrone soup offers a comforting, nutritious, and flexible dish that can adapt to your tastes and pantry staples. Whether you’re looking for a nutrient-packed veggie soup or a hearty, filling meal, this classic Italian soup hits the spot. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless variations, you’ll find yourself making this delicious vegetable soup over and over again. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of Italy in every bowl!

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