© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©
Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup Classic 🥄🇮🇹✨
1. Introduction
Discover the hearty goodness of Italian minestrone soup with this classic recipe that embodies cozy comfort in every spoonful. Known for its rich blend of vegetables, pasta, beans, and flavorful broth, this classic Italian vegetable soup is perfect for a warm meal on chilly days or whenever you crave a nutritious, filling dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this cozy comfort soup is easy to make and endlessly versatile.
2. Ingredients for the Italian Minestrone Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Classic Italian Vegetable Soup
Preparation of the Vegetables
Begin by dicing and chopping all your vegetables to ensure even cooking and easy assembly.
Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Add chopped zucchini, salt, and pepper. Let all vegetables simmer for about 15 minutes.
Cooking the Pasta and Beans
To the simmering soup, add the small pasta and cannellini beans. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. In the final 5 minutes, add chopped kale or spinach for a nutritional boost.
Final Touches and Serving
Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy your cozy Italian minestrone soup.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Minstrone Soup
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if necessary.
5. Serving Suggestions for Classic Italian Vegetable Soup
This cozy comfort soup is perfect with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread on the side. For a heartier meal, add grilled sausage or meatballs. Pair with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner.
For more delicious holiday baking ideas, see our Festive Christmas Bread or French Onion Soup Pizza.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Minestrone Soup
Can I make vegan minestrone soup?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and omit any cheese or meat-based toppings. You can also add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh.
Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize with vegetables you have on hand, such as peas, green beans, or leeks. The soup is very flexible and flavorful with various seasonal vegetables.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, and cooking takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal for busy weeknights.
What pasta types work best?
Small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work perfectly for minestrone, providing a hearty bite without overpowering the soup.
7. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set makes sautéing and boiling effortless, enhancing your cooking experience.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Perfect for preparing crispy bread toppings or reheating leftovers quickly and healthily.
- KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange – Ideal for mixing dough or beating ingredients for your soups and side dishes.
8. Final Tips for Perfect Minestrone Every Time
- Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor, but frozen or canned vegetables work well in a pinch.
- Adjust the seasoning and broth to your taste — add herbs like basil or oregano for extra Italian flair.
- Simmer the soup gently to allow flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and comforting classic Italian vegetable soup.
9. Conclusion
This Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup Classic is a delicious, nutritious, and comforting dish that brings the authentic taste of Italy into your home. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and heartwarming qualities make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether served on a chilly evening or as part of a family gathering, this cozy comfort soup will surely become a favorite. Don’t forget to explore our other recipes and kitchen tools to enhance your cooking adventures!
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Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup Classic
A hearty, warming Italian minestrone soup brimming with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, offering a perfect comforting meal for any season.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained
- 1 cup small pasta (orzo or ditalini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced zucchini, tomatoes, broth, beans, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, add pasta, and simmer until pasta is cooked al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350 ml)
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg