Hearty Minestrone Soup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 medium carrots, chopped

2 celery ribs, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste

Freshly ground black pepper

3 garlic cloves, grated

1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes

1½ cups cooked white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup chopped green beans

4 cups vegetable broth

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

¾ cup small pasta, elbows, shells, orecchiette

½ cup chopped fresh parsley

Red pepper flakes

Grated Parmesan cheese, optional, for serving

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and several grinds of black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2:

Add the garlic, tomatoes, beans, green beans, broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme.

Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 3:

Stir in the pasta and cook, uncovered, for 10 more minutes, until the pasta is cooked through.

Step 4:

Season to taste and serve with parsley, red pepper flakes, and parmesan, if desired.

Notes:

Vegetable Variety:

Minestrone soup is highly versatile, allowing you to use a variety of vegetables.
Feel free to add zucchini, potatoes, spinach, kale, or any seasonal vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

Bean Options:

While white beans or kidney beans are suggested, you can use other types like chickpeas, black beans, or pinto beans. If using canned beans, make sure to drain and rinse them well.

Broth Substitution:

The recipe calls for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian, but you can substitute with chicken broth or beef broth for a different flavor profile if you don’t need it to be vegetarian.

Herb Flexibility:

Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs for a fresher taste. Typically, the substitution ratio is 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equals 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Pasta Considerations:

Small pasta shapes like elbows, shells, or orecchiette are recommended, but you can use any small pasta you have. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. Add the pasta only when you’re ready to serve to prevent it from becoming mushy if you plan to store the soup.

Enhancing Flavor:

Adding a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers can add a rich, savory flavor. Remember to remove the rind before serving. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.

Texture and Thickness:

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them. For a brothier soup, you might want to add an extra cup of broth.

Storage Tips:

The soup can be refrigerated for 4-5 days. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.

Make-Ahead Tips:

This soup is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare it in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat and add pasta just before serving. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.

Nutritional Balance:

The soup is low in calories and fat while being high in fiber and protein, making it a nutritious and filling meal. To increase protein, consider adding more beans or a protein like cooked sausage or chicken.

Adjusting Seasonings:

Taste and adjust the seasonings before serving. Adding a bit more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes can enhance the flavors. Always taste as you go to ensure the soup is seasoned to your liking.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use canned beans instead of cooked beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

Can I substitute other vegetables for the ones listed?

Absolutely! Minestrone is a versatile soup.

You can add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, spinach, or kale based on your preference or availability.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth if you’re not concerned about keeping the soup vegetarian.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free pasta to make this soup gluten-free.

How can I make the soup more flavorful?

Adding a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers can add a depth of flavor.

Also, adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Just add the pasta when you reheat it to avoid it becoming too soft.

How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?

The soup can last for about 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, minestrone soup freezes well.

For best results, freeze without the pasta and add cooked pasta when reheating.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs.

Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried herbs with 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs.

How can I make the soup more hearty and filling?

You can add more beans or some cooked sausage or chicken to make the soup more filling.

Also, increasing the amount of pasta or adding a grain like quinoa or barley can make it heartier.