Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Sauté the base Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened (about 7 minutes). Stir in garlic, oregano, and basil.
- Build the broth Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add veggies and beans Stir in green beans and kidney beans. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Cook the pasta Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
- Finish with greens Stir in spinach or kale until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve and garnish Ladle into bowls. Top with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
This hearty minestrone is even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Feel free to customize it with seasonal vegetables or add pasta, rice, or beans for extra heartiness. Pair with a slice of crusty bread for the perfect comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: None
Keywords: Classic Italian Minestrone, Homemade Minestrone Soup