Hearty and Healthy Minestrone Soup Recipe for a Cozy Meal
As the chill of fall settles in, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of homemade soup. And when it comes to the greatest comfort food, Minestrone Soup takes the crown. This hearty, healthy, and incredibly satisfying soup is not only delicious, but it’s the perfect antidote to cold weather cravings. Bursting with fresh vegetables, beans, and small pasta, it’s a complete meal in a bowl that’s both nourishing and filling.
What makes this recipe so special? It's adaptable to suit your tastes and whatever you have on hand, making it a fantastic option for using up leftover vegetables or pantry staples. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a nourishing choice for a cozy meal. Get ready to dive into this comforting, flavorful bowl of goodness that will keep you warm and satisfied.
Why You'll Love This Minestrone Soup Recipe
- Packed with Nutrition: This soup is loaded with heart-healthy beans, fiber-rich vegetables, and immune-boosting herbs, making it the perfect healthy choice for any time of the year.
- Quick & Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and under 45 minutes, you can have a delicious, homemade soup ready to enjoy.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer to add more vegetables or use a different type of pasta, this soup can be easily tailored to your preferences and what you have in your kitchen.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes enough for 5-6 servings, so it’s great for meal prepping and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Onion, diced
- 2 Medium carrots, chopped
- 2 Celery ribs, thinly sliced
- 4 Cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 Can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 Cups white beans or kidney beans, cooked, drained, and rinsed
- 1 Cup chopped green beans
- 4 Cups vegetable broth
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 Teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 Teaspoon dried thyme
- 3/4 Cup small pasta (elbows, shells, or orecchiette)
- 1/2 Cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 Teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnishing (optional)
How to Make Minestrone Soup?
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, sliced celery, and season with salt and pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Tomatoes
Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the can of diced tomatoes, white beans, green beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the pasta and continue to cook, uncovered, for about 10 more minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Taste and Season
Once the pasta is ready, remove the pot from the heat. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to your preference.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. For an added indulgence, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Zulay's Expert Tips for the Perfect Minestrone Soup
- Customize the veggies. If you have other vegetables on hand like zucchini, spinach, or kale, feel free to add them to the soup. Minestrone is all about flexibility!
- Use fresh herbs. If you have fresh oregano and thyme available, use them instead of dried herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Be sure to cook the pasta just until tender—overcooked pasta can make the soup mushy.
- Make it ahead. This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
- If you have any leftovers, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the pasta may soften a bit after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.
Zulay's Final Thoughts
This Minestrone Soup is not only comforting and filling but also loaded with healthy ingredients that’ll keep you feeling energized and satisfied. It’s the perfect dish to make on a chilly evening, and its hearty texture and rich flavors will warm you from the inside out. This soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’llunderstand why it’s loved by so many!
Know Someone Who Should Read This?
If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with friends and family across all social media platforms. Don’t forget to tag @zulaykitchen and use #kitchenhappiness to spread the joy of making this hearty, healthy soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for Minestrone Soup?
Absolutely! You can use any small pasta you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni, shells, or orecchiette. Just make sure to choose something small enough to fit comfortably in each spoonful of soup.
Can I make Minestrone Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, sauté the vegetables and garlic as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How do I store and reheat Minestrone Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
