Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

This easy minestrone soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta, it creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight dish, this soup is both simple to prepare and deliciously customizable. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Italy right in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This minestrone soup comes together in just 50 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, it’s a healthy option that provides essential nutrients.
• Versatile Recipe: Customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes for a personal touch.
• Hearty and Filling: With beans and pasta, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for meals on demand.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this easy minestrone soup recipe even simpler. Gather your essentials before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-quart soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart soup pot: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup without overflow.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.

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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.

Vegetables

• 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

Canned Goods & Broth

• 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

Seasonings & Pasta

• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 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.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Add 1 medium diced white onion. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until the onions start to soften.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add 3 diced celery ribs, 4 diced carrots, and 3 diced zucchini. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Stir in:
– 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 the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 5: Add Pasta

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

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

During the last two minutes of cooking, add in the roughly chopped baby spinach until wilted.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Season your soup with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Serve hot with optional garnishes like grated parmesan cheese if you wish!

How to Serve Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving Easy Minestrone Soup can be a delightful experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its flavors and making for a complete meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful twist by pairing it with garlic bread, which complements the soup’s richness.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to enhance the meal without overpowering it.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Top your bowl of minestrone with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese Toast: Melt cheddar cheese on toast and serve it alongside the soup for a comforting touch.

How to Perfect Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Easy Minestrone Soup can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide better flavor and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook and adjust the herbs and spices based on your preference for a more personalized flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving to maintain its texture.
• Add Protein Variations: You can incorporate cooked chicken or turkey for additional protein if desired.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day; consider making it ahead and storing it in the fridge overnight.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Minestrone Soup can create a satisfying dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Focaccia Bread: Soft, herbed focaccia is great for sopping up every bit of broth.
2. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a fresh element to your meal.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers offer a hearty side that complements the flavors of minestrone.
4. Spinach Quiche: A slice of spinach quiche provides protein while also enhancing the vegetarian theme of the meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an additional layer of flavor and nutrition.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can serve as a filling side that pairs well with the soup’s broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your vegetables and beans. Using fresh ingredients enhances flavor and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper can make a big difference. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Overcooking the pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Add it at the right time to avoid mushiness.
• Skipping the broth: Using water instead of vegetable broth can dull the soup’s flavor. Stick with broth for a more robust taste.
• Not customizing: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or beans. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to make it your own.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this easy minestrone soup recipe.

Can I make this Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better when made a day ahead, allowing flavors to meld.

What vegetables work best in an Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

You can use any veggies you like! Carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans are great choices.

How do I store leftovers from my Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

Can I adjust the thickness of my Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Minestrone Soup Recipe is not only hearty but also flexible enough for various tastes. With a mix of fresh vegetables and beans simmered in savory broth, it’s perfect for any meal. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a comforting bowl today!