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Hearty Italian Minestrone Soup

A nourishing, vibrant soup packed with fresh veggies and delicious flavors, perfect for any time of the year.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing vegetables
  • 1 medium onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
  • 2 carrots, diced Adds sweetness and color
  • 2 stalks celery, diced Adds crunch and flavor
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced Adds texture
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped Adds freshness
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed Adds protein and fiber
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Adds acidity and flavor
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Base for the soup
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Flavor enhancer
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
  • 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow) Use preferred small pasta
  • to taste Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Adds freshness
  • to taste Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving Optional topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Toss in the carrots and celery; cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add the zucchini and green beans, stirring well.
  3. Add the kidney beans and diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth, add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Add your chosen small pasta and cook according to package directions—usually about 8-10 minutes—until al dente.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil, and serve with grated Parmesan on top.

Notes

Customize your soup by swapping out vegetables as desired. For a fresh twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. When storing leftovers, add a splash of broth when reheating to maintain consistency. Pasta can be cooked separately if storing for later to prevent mushiness.