There’s something truly magical about a hearty bowl of Vegetarian Minestrone. This dish not only celebrates the vibrant bounty of seasonal vegetables but also brings family and friends together around the dinner table. As the sunlight streams through your kitchen windows and the scent of fresh basil fills the air, prepare to embark on a culinary journey that combines wholesome ingredients with delightful flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this minestrone is a canvas for your creativity and a testament to the warmth of home-cooked meals.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and yellow bell pepper, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and cannellini beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the pasta, dried oregano, and dried basil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Just before serving, stir in the chopped baby spinach and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the minestrone into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Helpful Tips
For a heartier soup, consider adding more beans or substituting quinoa or brown rice for the pasta. You can also customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, such as green beans, peas, or butternut squash.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover minestrone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if needed. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting soup pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a simple antipasto platter and a glass of light red wine, such as Chianti.
We hope you enjoy creating and savoring this delightful Vegetarian Minestrone as much as we did. Share your beautiful bowls with us by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please leave feedback on our website at Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow us on social media for more delicious inspiration.
