Recipe
Rustic and Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe
Published: April 1, 2024
Discover a rustic and hearty minestrone soup recipe that's perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe is a must-try for soup lovers!
This rustic minestrone soup is my go-to comfort food. It's packed with veggies, pasta, and beans, simmered in a savory broth. Topped with parmesan, it's a hearty meal that warms my soul.
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Alright, have I got a treat for you! Picture a steamy bowl of my rustic, hearty minestrone soup. Fresh veggies, tender pasta, and aromatic herbs simmered together, creating an irresistibly comforting dish. This recipe isn't just soup, it’s a one-pot wonder, perfect for any hurried weeknight or lazy Sunday afternoon. Trust me, one taste and you'll want to make this a regular in your dinner line-up.
Ingredients for Rustic and Hearty Minestrone Soup
- Olive oil: Adds richness and flavor to the soup, enhancing the overall taste and providing a good base for sautéing vegetables.
- Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the soup, creating a flavorful base for the other ingredients to build upon.
- Carrots: Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, while adding a hearty texture and nutritional value.
- Celery: Provides a subtle earthy flavor and crunch to the soup, adding complexity and freshness to the overall dish.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with a rich and aromatic flavor, enhancing the taste profile and adding depth to the dish.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring a burst of tangy sweetness and acidity to the soup, adding a refreshing contrast to the other ingredients.
- Vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful base of the soup, providing a savory liquid for the vegetables and pasta to cook in.
- Kidney beans: Add protein and fiber to the soup, making it more filling and nutritious, while also adding a creamy texture.
- Zucchini: Introduces a mild flavor and tender texture to the soup, adding freshness and a pop of green color.
- Small pasta: Adds heartiness and substance to the soup, making it a complete meal and providing a comforting element.
- Dried oregano: Infuses the soup with a warm and herbaceous flavor, complementing the other ingredients and adding depth.
- Dried basil: Brings a sweet and slightly peppery flavor to the soup, enhancing the overall taste and aroma of the dish.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Provides a salty and nutty flavor to the soup, adding richness and depth to the finished dish.
One unique tip for this rustic and hearty minestrone soup recipe is to add a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving. It adds a subtle tangy sweetness that elevates the flavors of the soup.
Read more: Rustic Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
Essential Tools for Making Minestrone Soup
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup with enough space for all ingredients to simmer together evenly.
- Chef's knife: Needed for chopping vegetables and ingredients to the desired size for the soup recipe.
Common Questions About Making Minestrone Soup
Serves: 6 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup small pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, zucchini, pasta, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Read more: Instant Pot Minestrone Soup Recipe
Nutritional value:
Per Serving in Calories: 250 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40 g | Protein: 8 g | Total Fat: 6 g | Saturated Fat: 1 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 0 mg | Sodium: 800 mg | Dietary Fiber: 8 g | Sugar: 8 g | Calcium: 100 mg | Potassium: 600 mg | Iron: 3 mg | Vitamin A: 500 µg | Vitamin C: 20 mg
Tips for Making Minestrone Soup Ahead of Time
Make Ahead Instructions
- You can make the minestrone soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Freezing Instructions
- To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.
