Classic and Comforting Minestrone Soup

Classic and Comforting Minestrone Soup

As the cooler days approach, nothing beats the comfort and simplicity of a steaming bowl of Minestrone soup. This Italian classic is a thick soup made with vegetables, often with the addition of pasta or rice, and sometimes both. One of the beauties of Minestrone is its versatility – you can adjust the ingredients according to what’s seasonal and what you have on hand. Let’s dive into making this wholesome and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 small yellow squash, diced
• 1 cup of cut green beans
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots; cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, green beans, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften but still retain some crunch.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for around 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the kidney beans, cannellini beans, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Add the pasta and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

This versatile soup is perfect for meal prepping as it holds up well in the refrigerator and the flavors deepen as it sits. Enjoy your delicious and hearty Minestrone soup!