Minestrone Vegetable Soup

Minestrone vegetable soup is a quintessential Italian classic, known for its hearty texture and nourishing ingredients. This comforting bowl is a celebration of fresh produce, combined with protein-rich beans and tender pasta for a truly satisfying meal that warms the soul.

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This recipe brings together the earthy flavors of the Mediterranean, offering a rustic simplicity that has made minestrone a staple in kitchens worldwide for generations. Whether for a quick lunch or a family dinner, it never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 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)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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 results, ensure all vegetables are diced into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Sautéing the aromatics thoroughly at the start builds a rich flavor base that carries through the entire soup.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily substitute vegetables based on seasonality, adding spinach, kale, or cabbage for extra greens. For a heartier version, consider adding pancetta during the initial sauté or extra beans for more protein.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread and a glass of Chianti. For a vegan-friendly version, simply omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

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With its vibrant colors and rich aromas, this minestrone vegetable soup is a bowl of pure comfort that celebrates the simplicity of high-quality ingredients.

Recipe FAQs

→ What vegetables work best in minestrone?

Classic minestrone includes carrots, celery, onions, zucchini, green beans, and tomatoes, but you can easily adapt based on what's in season. Spinach, kale, cabbage, or Swiss chard make excellent additions, especially in colder months.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Minestrone actually tastes better the next day as flavors have time to meld together. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Add pasta when reheating to prevent it from becoming too soft.

→ What type of pasta should I use?

Small pasta shapes work best—ditalini, elbow macaroni, small shells, or tubetti are traditional choices. These shapes hold up well in soup and fit neatly on the spoon with vegetables and beans.

→ How can I add more protein?

Beyond the cannellini beans, you can stir in extra beans like kidney or borlotti. For non-vegetarians, pancetta or bacon added at the beginning provides depth and protein. A parmesan rind simmered in the broth also adds richness.

→ Is minestrone gluten-free?

The traditional version contains pasta with gluten, but you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting gluten-free pasta or adding extra vegetables and rice instead. Always check that your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

→ What should I serve with minestrone?

Crusty Italian bread or focaccia is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup. For a complete Italian meal, serve with a glass of Chianti or other red wine.