Dive into a bowl of this comforting Italian Minestrone Soup, a hearty blend of seasonal vegetables, cannellini beans, and pasta, all simmered to perfection. Choose from a selection of mouthwatering Italian side dishes to transform this soup into a wholesome vegetarian one-pot dinner the whole family will enjoy!
If you've ever wondered what makes minestrone a beloved classic, you're in for a treat. This thick vegetable soup, pronounced "min-uh-stroh-nee," is a comforting Italian dish brimming with hearty goodness. In this recipe, we'll take you through the steps to create a pot of nourishing minestrone that's perfect for any occasion.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy and Wholesome: Our minestrone is a nutritious bowl of goodness, packed with a variety of fresh vegetables. This hearty soup makes for a healthy meal and a super easy dinner.
Vegetarian Delight: This minestrone recipe caters to vegetarians (and vegans), making it an inclusive option for gatherings and family meals.
Meal Prep and Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy the convenience of having a wholesome meal at your fingertips.
Versatile and Adaptable: Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences and what's available in your pantry.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Onions, Carrots, Celery and Garlic
- Fresh bay leaves, Fresh Rosemary and Flat leaf parsley
- Canned Whole Plum Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
- Vegetable Stock
- Cannellini Beans
- Seasonal Greens like Kale, Spinach, or Swiss chard
- Small Pasta Shapes
- Zucchini
See the recipe card for quantities.
How To Make This Traditional Minestrone Soup Recipe
1. Put a large pot on medium-high heat with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until soft and translucent.
Did you know: This mixture of onions, carrots, and celery gently fried in a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil is called Soffritto and it forms the flavorful base of many Italian dishes
2. Add the garlic, bay leaves, and rosemary, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until softened and caramelized.
3. Add the tomato paste and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Add the stock and tinned tomatoes, breaking them up with your spoon, then bring to the boil.
5. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, then add the beans, greens, and pasta. Cover and allow it to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches an al dente texture and the soup achieves your desired thickness.
6. Add the zucchini and simmer for a few more minutes until the zucchini is cooked.
7. Add the chopped parsley and season the soup with salt and freshly ground pepper.
8. Serve it with a dollop of basil pesto, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Hearty Minestrone Soup Variations
Vegetables: Get creative with seasonal vegetables to add your own unique flavor. Consider using options like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, green beans, or leeks for a unique twist.
Pasta Shapes: Elevate the texture of your minestrone by experimenting with various pasta shapes. Try options like fusilli for added flair or use orzo or small shells for a delightful bite.
Beans: While cannellini beans are classic, don't hesitate to switch things up. Opt for red kidney beans, chickpeas, or mixed beans to introduce a different richness and texture to your minestrone.
Add some Protein: Enhance the heartiness of your minestrone by incorporating protein like Italian sausage or tender chunks of cooked chicken. These additions provide a satisfying and flavorful boost to your soup.
Storage Instructions
Fridge
Keep leftover Minestrone Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. This soup is even better the next day and perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner.
How To Freeze Minestrone Soup
- Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature.
- Portion the soup into individual portions. Use freezer-safe air-tight containers. Remember to leave space for expansion, 1 - 2cm or about 1 inch in depth is good.
- Label and date your soup.
- Freeze soup.
Chef Tip: If you are making a batch of soup specifically to freeze for later, consider leaving the pasta out before freezing and adding the dried pasta shapes to the soup when you are reheating the defrosted soup.
How to Defrost Minestrone Soup
Thaw frozen soup using these methods:
- Place the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight for gradual defrosting.
- Use the microwave's defrost setting for a quicker thaw, stirring occasionally.
- Try a water bath: Submerge the sealed container in cold water to speed up defrosting without compromising quality. Avoid water seeping into the container.
How To Reheat Minestrone Soup
Warm up your soup with these tips:
Microwave: For microwave reheating, use short intervals, stirring in between for even heat. Remember to loosely cover the soup so that you don’t have to clean it up later.
Stove Top: On the stovetop, gently warm defrosted soup over medium-low heat and give it a good stir every now and then. This prevents overheating which can make the soup split and affect consistency.
Slow Cooker Method: If you're aiming for a hands-off approach or reheating a large quantity of soup, consider reheating your Minestrone Soup in a crockpot. Set it to low heat and let the soup gradually warm up for 1- 2 hours.
What To Serve With Minestrone Soup
Freshly Baked Bread Options
- Rosemary and Sea Salt Focaccia: Indulge in the aromatic delight of freshly baked focaccia, generously adorned with fragrant rosemary and a sprinkle of sea salt. Its airy interior and crisp, golden crust make it a perfect companion for sopping up the rich flavors of your classic minestrone soup.
- Cheesy Ciabatta Garlic Bread: Crispy, golden ciabatta bread slathered in a savory garlic butter spread and generously topped with mozzarella cheese. This delectable side is a true crowd-pleaser.
- Italian Herb Bread: Delight in the enticing aroma and robust flavors of Italian herb-infused bread. Each bite is a symphony of basil, oregano, and thyme, offering a delightful contrast to the hearty depths of your minestrone.
- Whole Wheat Italian Bread: Opt for the wholesome goodness of whole wheat Italian bread, a nutritious alternative that offers a rustic, nutty flavor. Its hearty texture pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of your minestrone.
- Parmesan Bread Bites: Bite-sized morsels of golden, cheesy goodness await in these Parmesan bread bites. Each piece is a delectable fusion of crispy exterior and tender, cheesy interior, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
- Stuffed Braided Bread: Impress your guests with a beautifully braided loaf, concealing a savory filling of your choice. You could use a medley of sautéed vegetables or a blend of cheeses, this stuffed bread offers a delightful surprise in every slice.
- Grissini: Delicate, crisp, and perfectly seasoned, grissini are slender Italian breadsticks that add a touch of elegance to your meal. Their subtle crunch and light, airy interior make them a sophisticated side for savoring alongside this classic Italian vegetable soup.
- Homemade Croutons: Elevate your minestrone experience with homemade croutons, crafted from golden, toasted bread cubes seasoned to perfection. These crunchy morsels provide a delightful contrast in texture, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to your meal.
- Homemade Bread Sticks: These golden breadsticks offer a delightful crunch and a mild, yeasty flavor. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, they're an excellent accompaniment for savoring the robust flavors of your minestrone.
Sandwich Options
- Pesto toasted cheese: Creamy, melted cheese meets aromatic basil pesto between golden, buttery bread. This side dish offers comfort with a touch of sophistication, a perfect complement to your minestrone.
- Mini pizzas: Bite-sized bursts of Italian indulgence with zesty tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and toppings. They add a taste of pizza perfection to your minestrone.
- Caprese Panini: A warm fusion of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, toasted to golden perfection. This side dish captures the essence of a classic Caprese salad, complementing your minestrone.
Side Salad Ideas
- Arugula and Parmesan Salad: A peppery kick from arugula perfectly complements the nutty notes of shaved Parmesan in this refreshing salad. Drizzle with a lemony vinaigrette for a zesty finish.
- Panzanella Salad: Experience the flavors of Tuscany with Panzanella salad. Cubes of crusty bread soak up vibrant tomato juices, mingling with fresh basil, cucumbers, and red onions, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette.
- Radicchio Salad: Embrace the bitter beauty of radicchio and endive in this vibrant salad. Tossed with a delicate vinaigrette, it offers a tantalizing contrast to the rich flavors of your minestrone.
- Caprese Salad: Revel in the simplicity of Insalata Caprese, a classic Italian salad featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Vegetable Side Dishes
- Zucchini fries: These savory delights offer a delightful crunch alongside your minestrone, providing a satisfying contrast to the rich, hearty flavors of the soup.
- Roasted Garlic and Herb Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with fragrant garlic and a blend of fresh herbs. This side dish offers a comforting, earthy complement to your minestrone.
- Sauteed Spinach with Garlic and Lemon: Delicate spinach leaves are quickly sautéed with garlic and a splash of zesty lemon juice. The result is a light and vibrant side that pairs beautifully with the heartiness of your minestrone.
Cheesy Sides
- Parmesan crisps: These savory bites offer a burst of rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements your minestrone. Their light, airy texture and intense cheese taste make them a satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
- Mozzarella sticks: These indulgent delights are an irresistible side dish, offering a golden, gooey, and satisfying contrast to the hearty flavors of your minestrone.
Wine Suggestions
Enhance your minestrone experience by pairing it with the perfect wine. The rich, hearty flavors of this minestrone soup harmonize beautifully with a selection of wines.
For those favoring red, a Chianti offers a delightful complement, with its medium body and earthy notes enhancing the savory elements of the dish.
Alternatively, if you prefer a white wine, opt for a crisp Pinot Grigio. Its bright acidity and citrus undertones provide a refreshing contrast, elevating the overall dining experience. Whichever you choose, these wine pairings add an extra layer of sophistication to your minestrone feast.
FAQ
Absolutely! First , sauté your aromatics (onions, carrots, and celery) in a pan, then transfer them along with the rest of the ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
More Soup Recipes
Looking for some more delicious cozy soups? Look no further!
As you savor each spoonful of this hearty minestrone, let the flavors transport you to the rustic kitchens of Italy. With its wholesome ingredients and aromatic herbs, this soup is a celebration of simple, yet extraordinary, Mediterranean cuisine. Pair it with your favorite Italian sides, and don't forget to raise a glass of our favorite wine for the perfect finishing touch.
From my kitchen to yours, may this minestrone soup become a cherished staple, warming your heart and delighting your taste buds.
Print
Italian Minestrone Soup Recipe (+21 best sides to serve)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 - 8
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Experience the heartiness of Italian Minestrone Soup, brimming with seasonal vegetables, cannellini beans, and pasta. A versatile choice for a wholesome vegetarian one-pot dinner, sure to please the entire family!
Ingredients
2 tablespoon Olive oil
2 small onions, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
3 carrots, chopped
4 sticks of celery, chopped
2 fresh bay leaves
2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoon tomato paste
1.5-liter vegetable stock (plus more as needed)
2 x 400g tins of plum tomatoes
2 x 400g tins of cannellini beans
100g seasonal greens like kale, spinach or Swiss chard
100g small pasta shapes
300g Zucchini, sliced
Flat leaf parsley, chopped
To serve:
Basil Pesto
Parmesan cheese
Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
1. Put a large pot on medium-high heat with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until soft and translucent.
2. Add the garlic, bay leaves, and rosemary, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until softened and caramelized.
3. Add the tomato paste and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Add the stock and tinned tomatoes, breaking them up with your spoon, then bring to the boil.
5. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, then add the beans, greens, and pasta. Cover and allow it to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches an al dente texture and the soup achieves your desired thickness.
6. Add the zucchini and simmer for a few more minutes until the zucchini is cooked.
7. Add the chopped parsley and season the soup with salt and freshly ground pepper.
8. Serve it with a dollop of basil pesto, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Notes
Storage Instructions:
Fridge: Keep leftover Minestrone Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. This soup is even better the next day and perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner.
Freezer-friendly: After allowing the soup to cool, divide it into individual portions using freezer-safe, air-tight containers. Leave space for expansion, about 1-2cm or 1 inch in depth. Don't forget to label and date each container before freezing. Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to Defrost Minestrone Soup:
Thaw frozen soup using these methods:
- Place the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight for gradual defrosting.
- Use the microwaves defrost setting for a quicker thaw, stirring occasionally.
- Try a water bath: Submerge the sealed container in cold water to speed up defrosting without compromising quality. Avoid water seeping into the container.
How To Reheat Minestrone Soup:
Warm up your soup with these tips:
- Microwave: For microwave reheating, use short intervals, stirring in between for even heat. Remember to loosely cover the soup so that you don’t have to clean it up later.
- Stove Top: On the stovetop, gently warm defrosted soup over medium-low heat and give it a good stir every now and then. This prevents overheating which can make the soup split and affect consistency.
- Slow Cooker Method: If you're aiming for a hands-off approach or reheating a large quantity of soup, consider reheating your Minestrone Soup in a crockpot. Set it to low heat and let the soup gradually warm up for 1- 2 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: Soup Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 300ml
- Calories: 249
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 907.8 mg
- Fat: 4.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Protein: 11.9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
The nutrition is an estimate only. It was calculated using Nutrifox, an online nutrition calculator.
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