Name: Hearty Veggie-Packed Minestrone Soup Recipe – Comfort in a Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained; 1 cup elbow pasta or small shells; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups baby spinach or kale; ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional); Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

When it comes to comfort food that’s healthy, filling, and full of flavor, nothing beats a steaming bowl of Minestrone Soup. This classic Italian soup recipe is beloved worldwide for its rustic charm, nourishing ingredients, and ability to adapt to whatever vegetables or beans you have on hand.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or a batch of healthy meal prep for the week, Minestrone Soup delivers every time. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also customizable, budget-friendly, and endlessly satisfying.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into what Minestrone Soup is, its origin, detailed ingredients list, step-by-step preparation, creative variations, FAQs, and more. By the end, you’ll not only master this Minestrone Soup recipe but also understand why it’s a timeless dish worth adding to your cooking rotation.

What is Minestrone Soup?

At its core, Minestrone Soup is a hearty, vegetable-packed Italian soup that balances flavor and nutrition. Unlike other soups with strict ingredient lists, Minestrone thrives on flexibility.

Traditionally, it includes a mix of seasonal vegetables, beans, pasta or rice, herbs, and a flavorful broth base. This adaptability is what makes Minestrone so special — each pot can be slightly different, depending on what’s available in your pantry or local market.

Some versions are thick and stew-like, while others are lighter and brothier. Regardless of style, one thing remains true: Minestrone Soup is the ultimate comfort food.

The Origin of Minestrone Soup

The history of Minestrone Soup dates back to ancient Rome. During that time, meals often revolved around puls, a simple porridge made with spelt flour and vegetables. Over time, as ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and pasta became accessible, the dish evolved into what we now recognize as Minestrone Soup.

The name “Minestrone” comes from the Italian word minestra, which means “soup,” with the suffix -one implying something larger or more substantial. True to its name, Minestrone is a big, hearty soup that represents the very spirit of Italian cucina povera — a style of cooking focused on humble, everyday ingredients made delicious through care and tradition.

Today, it remains one of Italy’s most famous culinary exports, with countless regional variations reflecting local ingredients and customs.

Ingredients for Minestrone Soup (Serves 6)

One of the best parts about this Minestrone Soup recipe is its versatility. Here’s a classic base recipe with precise measurements:

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
1 cup elbow pasta or small shells
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups baby spinach or kale
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions for Minestrone Soup

Making Minestrone Soup at home is simpler than you might think. Here’s the foolproof step-by-step method:

1: Sauté the Base

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, diced celery, and sliced carrots.
Cook until softened (about 7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Stir in the garlic, oregano, and basil until fragrant.

2: Build the Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes and broth to the pot.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

3: Add Veggies and Beans

Stir in the green beans and kidney beans.
Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.

4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta to the pot.
Cook until al dente (8–10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5: Finish with Greens

Stir in the spinach or kale just before serving.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.

Variations of Minestrone Soup

The beauty of Minestrone Soup lies in its adaptability. Here are some delicious variations:

Protein-Packed Minestrone – Add diced chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage for a meaty twist.
Gluten-Free Minestrone – Swap pasta for quinoa, rice, or gluten-free pasta.
Vegan Minestrone – Skip the Parmesan and use vegetable broth. Add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Seasonal Minestrone – Use seasonal produce like zucchini in summer or butternut squash in fall.
Creamy Minestrone – Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream for a velvety texture.

Pairing Ideas for Minestrone Soup

To make your meal even more satisfying, pair this Minestrone Soup recipe with:

Crusty garlic bread or focaccia
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
A glass of Chianti wine or sparkling water with lemon

FAQs About Minestrone Soup

1. Can I make Minestrone Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Minestrone Soup stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

2. Can I freeze Minestrone Soup?

Yes, but if freezing, cook the pasta separately. Pasta can become mushy when frozen. Add it fresh when reheating.

3. What beans work best in Minestrone Soup?

Kidney beans are traditional, but you can also use cannellini, navy beans, or chickpeas.

4. How can I make Minestrone Soup more filling?

Add extra beans, grains like farro, or even shredded chicken for added protein and bulk.

5. Is Minestrone Soup healthy?

Yes! Packed with vegetables, fiber, and plant-based protein, it’s a nutrient-rich meal option.

Conclusion

A bowl of Minestrone Soup is more than just food — it’s a warm, comforting hug that celebrates the richness of simple ingredients. This hearty, veggie-packed recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. It’s versatile enough for any season, customizable for any diet, and delicious enough to satisfy the whole family.

Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread on a chilly night or as a light lunch during the week, Minestrone Soup deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection. So grab your pot, gather your veggies, and let the magic of this Italian classic transform your mealtime.

Hearty Veggie-Packed Minestrone Soup Recipe – Comfort in a Bowl

Author: David Andersson
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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