Classic Minestrone Recipe

Imagine the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs filling your kitchen. Picture yourself gathering around the table with your loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over a hearty bowl of Classic Minestrone Soup. This colorful Italian staple isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings families together, evokes a cozy ambiance of an old-world kitchen, and warms your soul. Perfect for any season, this Minestrone is a celebration of simplicity and nourishment, and it’s worth trying for its rich taste and wholesome ingredients.

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (shells or ditalini)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Vegan parmesan, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the zucchini and green beans, cooking for a further 3 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cannellini beans, and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Add the pasta, oregano, and basil. Continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 10 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkling of vegan parmesan.

Helpful Tips:

For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with a gluten-free option. You can also add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes to make the soup heartier. For added protein, try adding chickpeas or lentils.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Minestrone can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.

Ingredient Substitutions:

If you don’t have cannellini beans, any white beans can be used. For variety, try using fire-roasted tomatoes instead of plain diced tomatoes for a smoky flavor.

Pairings:

This Classic Minestrone Soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette. A crisp sparkling water or a glass of iced tea complements the flavors nicely. At Zynahz, we believe that every meal is an opportunity to create joyful memories and explore culinary creativity. We hope this Classic Minestrone Recipe brings warmth and togetherness to your home. Try it out and share your delicious results with us! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and explore more delightful recipes on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired and keep the joy of cooking alive!