Minestrone Vegetable Soup

This Minestrone Vegetable Soup is a hearty and comforting Italian classic, brimming with seasonal vegetables, beans, pasta, and fragrant fresh herbs. It is the perfect nutrient-packed meal for any time of year, offering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

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Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup delivers authentic Italian flavors using simple ingredients found in most kitchens.

Ingredients

• Vegetables
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• Beans & Pasta
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• Seasonings & Herbs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
• Garnish (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2

Add carrots, celery, zucchini, potato, and green beans. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3

Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, and water. Add dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 4

Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Add cannellini beans and pasta. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta and vegetables are tender.

Step 6

Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in fresh parsley and basil. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7

Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best flavor, ensure you sauté the aromatics until translucent before adding the other vegetables. Always remember to remove and discard the bay leaf before serving, and adjust your salt and pepper at the very end to perfectly balance the broth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a plant-based alternative. You can also substitute vegetables based on what is in season, such as adding spinach, kale, or cabbage. For a gluten-free soup, use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this steaming soup with a side of crusty Italian bread and a glass of Chianti for a traditional experience. For extra protein and a heartier meal, you can add pancetta with the onions or extra beans.

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Enjoy this wholesome, vegetable-forward dish that brings the comfort of Italian home cooking to your table.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What vegetables are traditionally used in minestrone?

Classic minestrone includes onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, potatoes, and green beans. You can adapt based on seasonality with spinach, kale, or cabbage.

→ Can I make minestrone gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shapes like ditalini or macaroni. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long does minestrone keep in the refrigerator?

Minestrone stores well for 4-5 days in an airtight container. The pasta absorbs more broth over time, so you may want to add extra liquid when reheating.

→ Can I freeze minestrone soup?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slightly undercook the pasta before freezing, or freeze the soup without pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

→ What pasta works best in minestrone?

Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal. They hold up well during simmering and fit neatly on a spoon with the vegetables and beans.

→ How can I add more protein to this soup?

You can add pancetta while sautéing the onions, increase the quantity of cannellini beans, or stir in some cooked Italian sausage for extra protein and flavor.