The Minestrone Soup Recipe is a classic Italian vegetable soup loaded with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, simmered in a rich, herby tomato broth. This nutritious dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use a wide range of seasonal vegetables. Ready in just 45 minutes, Minestrone is a comforting and hearty soup perfect for any day of the week. Its flavors are deeply enhanced by fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Minestrone Soup is both light and filling, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for a wholesome, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
Why is it Called “Minestrone Soup”?
Minestrone comes from the Italian word “minestra,” which means “soup,” with the suffix “-one” indicating a large or hearty version of it. Therefore, Minestrone translates to “big soup” or “hearty soup” in Italian. This dish originated as a peasant dish made with whatever vegetables were in season, often incorporating pasta or rice to make it more filling. It became popular across Italy due to its versatility and ability to feed a family with simple ingredients. Minestrone Soup has evolved over the years, but its core values of using fresh, seasonal vegetables remain unchanged. This traditional dish is now beloved around the world for its wholesome ingredients, comforting flavors, and hearty nature that makes it a complete meal.
How Should Minestrone Soup Taste?
Minestrone Soup should have a rich, savory flavor with a perfect balance of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta or rice. The vegetables should be cooked until tender, yet still slightly crisp, to retain their natural flavors and textures. The tomato broth should be well-seasoned, with the depth of flavor coming from garlic, onions, and Italian herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano. The beans add a creamy texture, while the pasta or rice gives the soup substance and makes it more filling. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a final layer of richness and a hint of saltiness that elevates the entire dish. Minestrone Soup is all about bringing out the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients to create a comforting and nourishing meal.
How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?
To make the best Minestrone Soup, follow these tips:
- Use Seasonal Vegetables: Minestrone is all about fresh, seasonal produce. Use whatever fresh vegetables are in season for the best flavor.
- Cook Vegetables in Stages: Start by cooking the aromatics like onions, garlic, and celery, then add the harder vegetables like carrots before finishing with the softer ones. This ensures every vegetable is cooked perfectly.
- Add Pasta at the End: To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, add it towards the end of cooking. This keeps the pasta al dente and perfectly textured.
- Season Well: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs throughout the cooking process. Proper seasoning brings out the flavors of each ingredient.
- Finish with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It adds a rich, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Read More: Perfect Cacio e Pepe Recipe: A Creamy Italian Pasta Dish Ready in Just 20 Minutes
Minestrone Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
For the Minestrone Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 zucchini chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 can 400g diced tomatoes
- 1 can 400g cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup pasta small shape like ditalini or elbow
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Cook the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add Vegetables and Broth:
- Stir in the zucchini, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes.
- Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, basil, and oregano.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the Pasta:
- Add the pasta to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Serve:
- Ladle the Minestrone Soup into bowls.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Notes
- Variation: Add seasonal vegetables like spinach or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Serving Tip: Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a slice of crusty bread for an authentic Italian experience.
Conclusion
This Minestrone Soup Recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy a classic Italian comfort food that is both nutritious and hearty. With fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta cooked in a rich tomato broth, this soup is ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The balance of flavors and textures, along with the warmth of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, make Minestrone Soup a timeless favorite. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the comforting taste of Italy in every spoonful. Try this recipe today and bring the wholesome flavors of Minestrone to your table!
