Minestrone is a hearty and vibrant Italian soup that celebrates the flavors of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta. It’s perfect as a wholesome lunch, a light dinner, or a comforting meal on chilly days. This recipe focuses on using fresh, seasonal vegetables, resulting in a soup that is both nourishing and full of flavor. With its rich broth and colorful ingredients, minestrone is a classic dish that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and helps the flavors meld together. Dice the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Trim the green beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Having all ingredients prepped ahead of time makes the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to release its aroma without burning. This step builds the base flavor for the soup and ensures a rich, savory taste.
Adding Vegetables and Broth
Next, add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Allow the soup to simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. Simmering slowly helps the flavors develop fully and creates a comforting, hearty broth.
Incorporating Beans and Pasta
Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the drained beans. These add protein, texture, and heartiness to the soup.
In a separate small pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the soup just before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft and absorbing too much broth.
Adding Greens
Finally, fold in the fresh spinach or kale. Allow the greens to wilt gently for 2–3 minutes. They add color, nutrition, and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the broth and vegetables.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or a pinch of black pepper can enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Serving Minestrone
Serve the minestrone hot, ladled into bowls. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a nutty, salty flavor, and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Minestrone pairs beautifully with crusty bread, allowing you to soak up every drop of the flavorful broth. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds an extra layer of richness.
Tips for the Perfect Minestrone
- Season gradually: Taste throughout cooking to ensure the flavors are balanced.
- Use seasonal vegetables: Swap in vegetables that are in season for maximum flavor.
- Make it ahead: Minestrone tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes well, making it convenient for busy days.
Variations
- Add a splash of red wine to deepen the flavor.
- Include small sausage pieces or pancetta for a non-vegetarian version.
- Use barley or farro instead of pasta for a different texture.
- Stir in a handful of fresh basil leaves for an aromatic twist before serving.
Final Thoughts
Minestrone with fresh vegetables is a versatile, nourishing, and flavorful soup that showcases the best of seasonal produce. With its medley of textures and layers of taste, it’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch, a starter for dinner, or a comforting meal on a cold day, this classic Italian soup is always a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, freshness, and heartiness make it a timeless addition to any culinary repertoire.