Minestrone Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious bowl of goodness, look no further than this classic Minestrone Soup Recipe. Packed with vibrant veggies, tender beans, and al dente pasta, this soup hits every note from savory to fresh, offering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. It’s perfect for any time you want a nutritious meal that feels like a loving hug in a bowl, bringing together simple ingredients into an Italian-inspired masterpiece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Minestrone Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity and the fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each item plays an essential role in building the layered flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish so inviting and satisfying.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a rich base and helps soften the vegetables while infusing a subtle, fruity aroma.
• 1 large zucchini (chopped into small cubes, about 1 1/2 cups): Provides a tender bite with a mild sweetness that balances the tomato richness.
• 2 medium carrots (diced into cubes, about 1 1/2 cups): Offers a natural sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the soup.
• 4 ribs celery (chopped into small pieces, about 1 cup): Adds a subtle crunch and depth with its signature savory flavor.
• 1 small onion (diced): Delivers a foundational sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
• 2 tsp garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and a touch of pungency that elevates all other flavors.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that imparts traditional Italian flair and herbal depth.
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, lending vibrant color and rich tomato flavor.
• ¼ cup tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato essence, ensuring a luscious, robust base.
• 32 oz vegetable broth: Keeps the soup light yet flavorful, allowing the vegetables to shine.
• 2 cups water: Balances the broth and helps achieve the perfect soup consistency.
• 15 oz cannellini beans (drained): Creamy and hearty, they add protein and a smooth texture.
• 15 oz kidney beans (drained): Provide a slightly firmer bite and vibrant color contrast.
• ¾ cup macaroni noodles (or small pasta, uncooked): Adds comforting chew and satisfies those pasta cravings.
• 1 tsp salt (to taste): Essential for enhancing all flavors harmoniously.
• ½ tsp black pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the savory notes.
• 2 bay leaves: Infuse subtle earthy undertones that deepen the soup’s complexity.
• 2 tbsp parsley (freshly chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of green for visual appeal.
• 2 tbsp parmesan cheese (finely grated): A final touch of salty richness that ties the whole dish together.

How to Make Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped zucchini, carrots, celery, and onion. Cook them gently for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness begins to awaken. Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning, then let them cook for an additional 30 seconds—just until you can smell that irresistible, herby aroma wafting through your kitchen. This foundational step sets the tone for the entire soup.

Step 2: Add Tomato Base and Broth

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and water. Give everything a nice stir to dissolve the tomato paste completely. Once combined, bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the soup starts transforming into a rich, flavorful bath that your veggies and beans will soon swim in.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans, Pasta, and Seasonings

Here’s where the soup really begins to take shape. Add in the drained cannellini and kidney beans, the uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Keep the soup at a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, and let it cook until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. This step ensures every spoonful has a wonderful combination of textures and tastes.

Step 4: Final Touches and Taste

Before serving, carefully remove the bay leaves and discard them. Take a moment to taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed—this personal touch can make a world of difference. Finally, sprinkle the soup with freshly chopped parsley and a light shower of grated parmesan cheese. This finishing flourish brings brightness and a touch of indulgent creaminess that turns the minestrone into something special.

How to Serve Minestrone Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes to your Minestrone Soup Recipe is a simple way to elevate its flavor and presentation. Fresh parsley adds a fresh herbal bite, while parmesan cheese lends a salty, savory finish. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also provide extra warmth and richness.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic breadsticks for a delightful textural contrast that’s perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, balancing the soup’s heartiness with a refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the Minestrone Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls, turning the meal into a fun, interactive experience. Alternatively, layering it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a generous grating of parmesan in clear glass bowls lets the vibrant colors shine through, making it as eye-pleasing as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Minestrone soup tastes even better the next day because all the flavors have more time to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the soup before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can definitely freeze your Minestrone Soup Recipe for longer storage. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember that the pasta might absorb more liquid upon reheating, so you can add extra broth or water to adjust consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the pasta has absorbed too much liquid, stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency. Reheating in the microwave works too, just do it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use meat instead of beans in this Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe is vegetarian-friendly with beans as the protein, you can easily swap in cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or chicken if you prefer meat. Just brown your choice of meat before adding the vegetables for optimal flavor.

What other vegetables can I add to Minestrone soup?

Minestrone is incredibly versatile, so feel free to add green beans, spinach, kale, peas, or even potatoes. Whatever is seasonal or in your fridge can make this soup uniquely yours while keeping that classic character.

Is it better to cook the pasta separately before adding it to the soup?

For this recipe, cooking the pasta directly in the soup works best because it soaks up the delicious broth. However, if you plan on storing leftovers, cooking pasta separately and adding it when serving will prevent it from becoming too mushy.

Can I use canned beans or should I cook dried beans?

Canned beans are perfect for convenience and work perfectly in this Minestrone Soup Recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to your soup. If cooking dried beans, soak and cook them separately in advance to avoid any timing issues.

How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or broth slightly or simmer uncovered longer to allow some liquid to evaporate. For a thinner soup, simply add additional vegetable broth or water to reach your desired texture.

Final Thoughts

There is just something so heartwarming about a good bowl of soup, and this Minestrone Soup Recipe ticks all the boxes—from nourishing goodness to comforting flavors that feel like home. I truly hope you dive into making this recipe soon, sharing it with loved ones or savoring it as your own cozy treat. It’s an easy, flexible classic that never disappoints, and I guarantee it will become one of your go-to dishes whenever you want something wholesome and delicious.

Print