One-Pot Wonder: Delicious Minestrone Soup for Cozy Evenings

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as vibrant and hearty as Minestrone Soup. This classic Italian Vegetable Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, packed with wholesome vegetables, pasta, and beans, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or a light, satisfying lunch, our one-pot recipe makes preparing this traditional dish an absolute breeze, bringing authentic Italian flavors right to your kitchen table with minimal fuss.

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful soup. You’ll find that most of these are pantry staples, making this recipe a convenient choice for any night of the week.

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Get ready to enjoy the rich, aromatic process of crafting this comforting Minestrone Soup. Follow these simple steps to bring your delicious Italian Vegetable Soup to life.

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Add Beans and Pasta: Stir in the rinsed cannellini and kidney beans. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Keep an eye on the pasta to prevent overcooking.
4. Finish with Greens: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season generously with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, ground Italian sausage, or even chickpeas for extra protein.
Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or cabbage.
Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic can give your soup a delightful warmth.
Gourmet Garnish: Drizzle with a good quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves right before serving.
Cheesy Crust: Serve with crusty bread for dipping, or make a quick garlic bread for the side.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this Minestrone Soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, Minestrone Soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. If making it ahead, you might want to cook the pasta separately and add it to individual bowls just before serving to prevent it from getting too soft.

Q: What kind of pasta works best in Minestrone?

A: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are traditional. You can also break spaghetti or linguine into smaller pieces.

Q: Is Minestrone Soup freezer-friendly?

A: Yes, it freezes well! If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to undercook or omit the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when thawed and reheated. You can add freshly cooked pasta when reheating the soup.

Q: Can I use different types of beans?

A: Absolutely! Chickpeas, cannellini beans, kidney beans, or even great northern beans are all excellent choices for Minestrone. Use whatever you have on hand or prefer.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover Minestrone Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion

This delightful Minestrone Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of a homemade meal. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and heartwarming flavors, this one-pot Italian Vegetable Soup proves that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and easy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply seeking comfort on a quiet evening, this Minestrone will surely become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and goodness in every spoonful!

Recipe Note

For an even richer flavor, consider using a high-quality Parmesan rind to simmer in the soup along with the broth. Just remember to remove it before serving!