If you’re craving a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe. Bursting with vibrant veggies, tender beans, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish balances simple ingredients with rich, comforting flavors. Every spoonful is packed with texture and goodness, making it an ideal meal for cozy family dinners or when you need a nourishing pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the key to this recipe’s wonderful depth of flavor. Each component plays an essential role, contributing to the colorful medley and satisfying texture of the soup.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a silky base and enhances the sautéed veggies’ aroma.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: The onion provides a sweet and savory backbone once softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives a delightful punch that wakes up the entire soup.
- 2 ribs celery, chopped: Celery adds a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Carrots bring natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): This liquid sets the stage for all the flavors to mingle and meld together beautifully.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes infuse luscious acidity and body.
- 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained: Red beans contribute heartiness and protein-rich creaminess.
- 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained: White beans offer a softer texture and subtle earthiness.
- 1 cup chopped green beans: Green beans add a crisp bite and fresh, garden-like brightness.
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped: Zucchini brings moisture and a tender vegetable sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This blend is the fragrant herb kiss that ties all flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch to balance the tomatoes’ acidity.
- 3/4 cup small pasta (elbow, shells, etc.): Pasta creates substance and a fun, chewy texture.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to round out every flavor.
- Grated parmesan cheese: A finishing sprinkle that adds salty richness and umami flair.
How to Make Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables
Start this journey by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Let them gently cook for 7 to 8 minutes until everything softens and wakes up with vibrant aromas. This step is crucial because it forms the flavor foundation that makes the soup sing with warmth and depth.
Step 2: Combine and Simmer the Soup
Next, pour in the vegetable broth along with the crushed tomatoes, drained red kidney beans, white beans, green beans, and chopped zucchini. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and a teaspoon of sugar to balance flavors. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 15 minutes. This slow simmer allows the vegetables to meld perfectly and the broth to thicken into a hearty, soul-satisfying base.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Finish Cooking
This is where things get truly comforting! Stir in your choice of small pasta like elbow macaroni or shells. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente—a perfect balance of tender with a slight bite. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese to finish the Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe with a lovely savory note.
How to Serve Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese adds richness with a lovely melt-in-your-mouth quality. Fresh chopped basil or parsley give a burst of herbal brightness that lifts the entire dish. Don’t forget a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for an extra silky touch.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic toasts to dip and scoop up every last bit of this hearty soup. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast making the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic presentation that’s as cozy as it is tasty. Or layer the soup in clear glass mugs and top with parmesan and herbs for a charming appetizer at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This minestrone soup keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making your leftovers even more delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup in portions, but it’s best to hold off on adding pasta if you plan to freeze it, as pasta can get mushy. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until piping hot, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Finish again with a sprinkle of parmesan to revive that freshly made magic.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the parmesan or swap it for a vegan-friendly cheese alternative. The soup’s hearty vegetable and bean base shines all on its own.
What pasta works best for this minestrone soup?
Small shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or ditalini work wonderfully. They cook quickly and blend nicely with the vegetables without overpowering the soup.
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
You can! Just make sure to pre-cook dried beans until tender before adding them to the soup, as canned beans are already cooked and save time.
How can I make this soup more filling?
Adding extra beans, including a handful of cooked barley, or serving with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches boosts the protein and carbs, making the meal more substantial.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Start by sautéing the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add pasta during the last 30 minutes to avoid it becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for good reason. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, nutrition, and pure deliciousness that makes you feel cared for with every bowl. I encourage you to gather these simple ingredients, dive into the cooking process, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this wonderfully satisfying soup soon. You’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and wholesome Minestrone Soup packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and small pasta, simmered to perfection in a flavorful tomato and vegetable broth. This comforting Italian classic is perfect for a cozy meal and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 ribs celery (chopped)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 medium zucchini (chopped)
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans (drained)
- 1 (15-ounce) can white beans (drained)
Seasonings & Others
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup small pasta (elbow, shells, etc.)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, red kidney beans, white beans, chopped green beans, and chopped zucchini. Stir in the Italian seasoning and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta and Season: Stir in the small pasta and continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth to keep the soup vegetarian or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to substitute the small pasta shapes with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- The addition of sugar helps balance the acidity of the crushed tomatoes.
- Adjust the seasoning and beans based on preference or availability.
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
