Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe

Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe

Introduction

Minestrone soup is a timeless classic that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, pasta, and a rich broth, this dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for chilly days or as a nutritious meal, this Italian-inspired soup offers comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this hearty soup is a wholesome choice. Let’s dive into the recipe that combines simplicity with delightful flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup canned kidney beans
• 1 cup canned cannellini beans
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Toss in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Build the Base:
   Stir in the zucchini, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the vegetables in the flavorful seasoning.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Add the Beans and Pasta:
   Stir in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, and ditalini pasta. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not overcooked.
5. Final Touches:
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the soup before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty minestrone soup with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or a filling dinner. For added flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top or add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Conclusion

Minestrone soup is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. This recipe is easy to adapt with your favorite vegetables or beans, making it a go-to option for those who love variety. Warm, nourishing, and full of goodness, this soup is a testament to the magic of home-cooked meals. Gather your loved ones and savor the comfort of this timeless dish!

Enjoy your culinary masterpiece! 🌟