Name: Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup small pasta (orzo or ditalini); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for serving

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Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup: A Warm and Hearty Classic Italian Vegetable Delight 🥣🍅🌿

1. Introduction

Welcome to our ultimate guide to making Italian minestrone soup, a vibrant and comforting dish that embodies the heart of traditional Italian cuisine. Known as hearty minestrone or classic Italian soup, this vegetable-rich soup is perfect for any season, offering a nourishing experience full of flavor and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step recipe will help you craft the perfect bowl of Italian vegetable soup that rivals restaurant quality.

2. Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Minstrone Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup green beans, cut into pieces
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup

Preparing the Base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. This forms the flavorful base of your classic Italian soup.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Add chopped celery and carrots to the pot, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, stir in the chopped zucchini and green beans and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. These ingredients contribute to the colorful array of vegetables typical in Italian vegetable soup.

Simmering the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth and add a can of diced tomatoes. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Adding Beans and Pasta

Stir in the drained cannellini beans and the small pasta. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. This step is vital to achieve the hearty and filling nature of this hearty minestrone.

Finishing Touches

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Italian Minstrone Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to restore the desired consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Classic Italian Soup

Enjoy your Italian minestrone soup as a satisfying main course or a nourishing starter. Complement it with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an authentic touch, pair with a glass of full-bodied Italian red wine.

6. Making This Hearty Minstrone Your Own – Variations & Substitutions

This vegetable soup recipe is versatile; feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add cooked sausage or bacon for added protein. For a vegan version, omit cheese and choose vegetable broth.

7. FAQs about Italian Minstrone Soup

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit cheese to make a vegan version. You can also add extra beans or tofu for protein.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

Expect about 40-45 minutes total, including chopping, sautéing, and simmering. It’s a quick yet flavorful plant-based Italian soup.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove for best results.

What pasta works best?

Small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni are ideal as they hold up well in the soup. Feel free to experiment with gluten-free or whole wheat pasta.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quick prep and reheating leftovers, making the entire cooking process more efficient.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your pots and pans are durable and easy to clean for all your soup-making adventures.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Ideal for grilling bread or garnishes to serve along with your italian vegetable soup.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying a bowl of Italian minestrone soup is like taking a warm culinary trip to Italy. This heartily vegetable-based soup combines fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and comforting pasta to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you serve it as a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this classic Italian soup will become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and make it your own!

Cozy Italian Minestrone Soup