Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

This easy minestrone soup recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, healthy meal any day of the week. Packed with vibrant vegetables, nutritious beans, and comforting pasta, this dish brings Italian flavors right to your kitchen. It’s not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe requires just 20 minutes of prep time, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Filling: With an abundance of vegetables and beans, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful ingredients and delicious taste, making it an ideal family meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect easy minestrone soup recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-quart soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart soup pot: Ideal for making big batches of soup without overflow.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.

Ingredients

This easy minestrone soup recipe is a hearty and healthy Italian-inspired dish packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for a comforting meal, it’s simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings.

Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, diced
• 3 medium celery ribs, diced
• 4 medium carrots, diced
• 3 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Beans & Tomatoes

• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can white cannellini beans, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, undrained

Broth & Seasoning

• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

Pasta & Greens

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni or shell pasta
• 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Base

Heat 2 tablespoons salted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large 6-quart soup pot over medium heat until melted.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add 1 medium diced white onion to the pot. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until the onions start to soften. Next, add 3 diced celery ribs, 4 diced carrots, and 3 diced zucchini. Cook these vegetables for about 8 to 10 minutes until they begin to soften. Add in 1 tablespoon minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the following into the pot:
– 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
– 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
– 1 (15 ounce) can white cannellini beans (undrained)
– 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans (undrained)
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano

Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add in the pasta (8 ounces elbow macaroni or shell pasta). Reduce heat to medium-low. Allow it to cook at a low boil for about 10 to 12 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add Spinach

During the last two minutes of cooking time, stir in 1 cup roughly chopped baby spinach until wilted.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Season your soup with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve hot with a garnish of grated parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

This easy minestrone soup recipe is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy lunch, serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, thick slices of crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch that enhances the flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Pair it with a light side salad made from mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Sprinkled with Cheese

• Add grated parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

How to Perfect Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

To make your easy minestrone soup truly outstanding, consider these essential tips for the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables will enhance the taste and nutrition of your soup. Choose vibrant, ripe produce whenever possible.
• Customize Your Beans: Experiment with different types of beans based on your preference. Black beans or chickpeas can add unique flavors and textures.
• Adjust Seasonings as Needed: Don’t hesitate to modify herbs and spices according to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
• Simmer Longer for Depth: For richer flavor, allow your soup to simmer longer than the recipe suggests; just ensure you check the pasta for doneness periodically.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Complementing your easy minestrone soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich broth of minestrone.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light and refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooeyness of grilled cheese makes it an irresistible companion to any hearty soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and flavor while being healthy and satisfying.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with vegetables can enhance both nutrition and flavor.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers loaded with rice, beans, and spices can be a filling side dish option.
7. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a comforting crunch that balances out the softness of the soup.
8. Pita Chips with Hummus: Light pita chips served with hummus offer a delightful crunch and creamy texture perfect for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your easy minestrone soup recipe even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not chopping vegetables uniformly: Unevenly chopped vegetables can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Make sure to dice all veggies to a similar size for even cooking.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing your onions and garlic before adding other ingredients enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s key for a rich broth.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Be sure to add it in the last stages of cooking for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste and adjust salt and pepper towards the end for a balanced dish.
• Using low-quality broth: A flavorful broth is essential for a delicious soup. Choose high-quality vegetable broth or make your own for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir every minute until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the easy minestrone soup recipe that may help you.

Can I customize my Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand or prefer, such as green beans or bell peppers.

How long does it take to make Easy Minestrone Soup?

The total time needed is about 50 minutes, including prep and cook time.

What can I serve with Easy Minestrone Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad to complement the flavors of the soup.

Is this Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with vegetables and legumes, making it nutritious and filling.

Final Thoughts

This easy minestrone soup recipe offers warmth and comfort while being highly versatile. You can customize it with seasonal vegetables or your favorite beans, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a hearty bowl of goodness!