I still remember the first time I made this Minestrone Soup Recipe — the moment I took my first spoonful, I knew it was something special. The aroma of sautéed vegetables, herbs, and tomato broth filled my kitchen and made me feel instantly cozy.
Every bite was packed with layers of flavor, and it became a go-to whenever I wanted something both nourishing and satisfying. I love how it warms me on chilly nights and makes great leftovers.
You’ll see why this simple Italian classic has become one of my favorites. If you enjoy comforting meals like this, you might also like sheet-pan-lemon-pepper-chicken-recipe which brings another flavorful and hearty option to your table.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this classic minestrone soup and why each ingredient matters:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – adds rich flavor and helps sauté the veggies.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced – forms the savory base of the soup.
- 2 medium carrots, chopped – bring natural sweetness and color.
- 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced – essential for traditional flavor depth.
- 3 garlic cloves, grated – gives bold aroma and taste.
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes – creates a hearty tomato broth.
- 1½ cups cooked white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed – adds protein and fiber.
- 1 cup chopped green beans – provides texture and freshness.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – forms the flavorful liquid base.
- 2 bay leaves – add subtle herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – enhances Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds earthy aroma.
- ¾ cup small pasta (elbows, shells, orecchiette) – makes the soup filling.
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped – adds brightness at the end.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – for gentle heat.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – provides a savory finishing touch.
Note: Several servings — this recipe serves approximately 4–6 people. For more delicious recipe inspiration, you can also enjoy creamy-salmon-piccata-with-lemon-and-capers-recipe as another flavorful dish idea.
Variations
This soup is incredibly flexible. Try these options:
- Add zucchini, yellow squash, or potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Replace green beans with spinach or kale.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Skip Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Stir in fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven – for cooking the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon – for stirring ingredients while sautéing.
- Chef’s knife – for chopping vegetables.
- Ladle – for serving the soup easily.
How to Make Minestrone Soup Recipe
Prepare the Vegetable Base
I begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then I sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant. This step builds the essential flavor foundation of the soup.
Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Next, I stir in the garlic, tomatoes, beans, green beans, herbs, and vegetable broth. I bring everything to a gentle simmer so the flavors blend together beautifully. Letting it simmer allows the broth to deepen in taste.
Add Pasta and Finish
Finally, I add the pasta and cook until it becomes tender. I remove the bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and stir in parsley before serving. The soup is now ready to enjoy hot with your favorite toppings.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
- I always sauté the vegetables slowly to enhance their natural sweetness.
- I taste and adjust salt before serving to balance the flavors.
- I sometimes cook pasta separately when planning leftovers to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon at the end makes the soup taste fresher.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated varieties.
How to Serve Minestrone Soup Recipe
I like to serve this soup in deep bowls while it’s still steaming hot. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese makes it visually appealing. Pair it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It also works beautifully as a starter for dinner gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: Moderate and balanced
- Protein: Good plant-based source from beans and pasta
- Carbohydrates: Provides energy from vegetables and pasta
- Fat: Mainly from heart-healthy olive oil
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerating
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If possible, keep pasta separate for better texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes well for up to 2–3 months. For best results, freeze without pasta and add it fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warm. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this minestrone soup will become a favorite:
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
- Highly Customizable: Easy to adjust based on season or preference.
- Healthy and Filling: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant protein.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores and reheats beautifully.
- Comforting Flavor: Warm, hearty, and satisfying every time.
If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting, and family-friendly soup, this minestrone recipe is the perfect choice. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and ideal for any season. Enjoy every cozy spoonful! 🍲
