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Authentic Minestrone Soup

A close-up of a bowl of hearty minestrone soup, filled with pasta, beans, carrots, tomatoes, and herbs, topped with grated cheese.
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A hearty, vegetable-rich Italian soup that is easily adaptable to seasonal produce and your favorite pasta or beans. This recipe provides a solid foundation for a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 8 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1 cup chopped yellow squash
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
  • 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
  4. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, green beans, cannellini beans, and kidney beans. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Stir in the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese.
  • This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
  • You can substitute other beans like great northern or chickpeas.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes.
  • This soup is excellent for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. The flavors meld and deepen overnight.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipestokeep.com/minestrone-soup-recipe/