Introduction
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish known for its rich and hearty flavors, brimming with vegetables, beans, pasta, and aromatic herbs. This comforting bowl of goodness is not only delicious but also a wholesome and nutritious meal. Let's explore how to make a satisfying bowl of homemade minestrone soup.
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Ingredients:
For the Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 yellow squash, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, small shells, or macaroni)
1 can (14 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (Optional):
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Crusty bread or garlic bread
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, and green beans. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
3. Simmer with Tomatoes:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well.
4. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Cook Pasta Separately:
While the soup simmers, cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions until it's just al dente. Drain and set it aside.
6. Add Beans and Seasoning:
Stir in the cannellini beans and kidney beans, followed by the dried Italian seasoning (or your herb mix of choice). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
7. Combine Pasta and Soup:
Add the cooked pasta to the soup. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
8. Serve:
Ladle the hot minestrone soup into bowls.
Optionally, garnish each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
9. Enjoy:
Enjoy your homemade minestrone soup as a nourishing and comforting meal.
Tips:
Feel free to customize your minestrone soup by adding other vegetables you love or have on hand, such as spinach, kale, or cabbage.
Adjust the pasta type and quantity to suit your preference for a thicker or thinner soup.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Minestrone soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
This homemade minestrone soup recipe captures the essence of Italian comfort food. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for warming up on a chilly day or enjoying any time you crave a taste of Italy's culinary tradition. Buon appetito!
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