Instant Pot Minestrone Soup is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. This hearty and healthy soup, packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, can be made effortlessly using your Instant Pot. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, Instant Pot Minestrone Soup brings the comfort of traditional Italian cooking to your home. Whether you’re a fan of minestrone or new to this classic, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, making it quick and easy to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Fun Fact: Did you know that minestrone is a centuries-old Italian soup that has evolved over time to include a variety of seasonal vegetables and beans? Traditionally, it was made to use up leftover ingredients, making it a versatile and economical dish.
Inspirational Quote: “Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” – Auguste Escoffier
Recipe Description:
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that combines a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. Originating from Italy, minestrone has been a staple in Italian households for generations. The Instant Pot brings modern convenience to this traditional recipe, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors of a slow-cooked soup in a fraction of the time. The addition of seasonal vegetables and beans makes this dish both nutritious and adaptable, reflecting the true essence of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Procedure:
- Prepare the Instant Pot:
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cannellini beans, mixing well with the vegetables.
- Add Broth and Pasta:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the pasta. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Soup:
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 4 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, quick release the pressure.
- Add Spinach:
- Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion:
This Instant Pot Minestrone Soup recipe is a quick and nutritious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth.
Additional Notes:
- Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Recipe:
- For added depth of flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or rice.
Region of Origin:
This minestrone recipe originates from Italy, where it has been enjoyed as a hearty and nutritious meal for centuries.
How Long it Lasts:
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Drink Pairings:
Pair this minestrone with a light Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with a splash of lemon. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors of the soup.
Try this Instant Pot Minestrone Soup recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below! We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this hearty and nutritious soup.