Save Vegetable Minestrone is a hearty, comforting Italian soup brimming with seasonal vegetables, tender pasta, and creamy beans. This versatile dish is perfect for adapting year-round, offering a nourishing meal that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Pin it Whether you choose to use summer zucchini and green beans or winter butternut squash and kale, the base of rich tomato broth and aromatic herbs ensures a delicious result every time. This recipe is a pantry-friendly staple that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium onion (diced), 2 carrots (diced), 2 celery stalks (diced), 1 small zucchini or 1 small butternut squash (diced), 1 cup green beans or 1 cup chopped kale/spinach, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes, 1 medium potato (peeled and diced, optional).
- Broth & Beans: 1.5 liters vegetable broth, 1 can (400 g) cannellini or borlotti beans (drained and rinsed), 100 g small pasta (ditalini, elbow, or shells), salt and pepper to taste.
- Herbs & Seasonings: 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in garlic, zucchini or squash, and green beans or kale. Cook for 3 minutes.
- Step 3
- Add diced tomatoes, potato (if using), and the bay leaf. Cook for 2 minutes, then pour in the vegetable broth.
- Step 4
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 5
- Add beans and pasta. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta and vegetables are tender.
- Step 6
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Remove the bay leaf.
- Step 7
- Stir in chopped parsley. Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of savory depth, add a Parmesan rind to the soup as it simmers; just be sure to remove it before serving. Using a large soup pot and a wooden spoon will help you manage the ingredients effectively as they soften and release their flavors.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. In spring, try adding peas, leeks, or cabbage. In winter, savoy cabbage makes an excellent addition. To make the dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. For those requiring a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free pasta and always verify ingredient labels.
Serviervorschläge
Ladle the soup into deep bowls and serve alongside warm, crusty bread. A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top will elevate the presentation and taste.
Pin it With approximately 260 calories and 9 grams of protein per serving, this Vegetable Minestrone is a balanced meal that provides comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What vegetables work best in minestrone?
Traditional minestrone includes carrots, celery, onion, zucchini, and green beans. For winter variations, substitute butternut squash, kale, or spinach. Spring welcomes peas and leeks, while any seasonal vegetables can be incorporated based on availability.
- → Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely. Simply replace the regular pasta with gluten-free varieties like ditalini or small shells. All other ingredients naturally contain no gluten, making this an easy adaptation for dietary needs.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb broth, so add additional vegetable broth when reheating. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- → What pasta shapes are traditional in minestrone?
Small pasta shapes work best—ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells. These sizes cook evenly and fit perfectly on a spoon. Avoid larger shapes as they overwhelm the vegetable balance.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Yes, this soup is easily veganized. The soup base contains no animal products. Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives for serving.