Description
This hearty minestrone soup is a classic Italian-inspired vegetable soup loaded with beans, pasta, and vibrant vegetables. It’s filling, cozy, and perfect for meal prep, combining savory broth with wholesome ingredients to create a comforting and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
Pantry Items
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¾ cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, drained beans, and vegetable broth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add Vegetables and Pasta: Stir in diced zucchini, chopped green beans, and the small pasta. Continue simmering for another 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan if using, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra greens, add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- The soup thickens as it sits; add additional broth or water when reheating to reach desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
