Discover the wholesome and hearty flavors of Traditional Minestrone Soup. This classic Italian soup is packed with a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Follow this recipe to create a delicious minestrone that brings the essence of Italy to your table.
Inspiring Quote
“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” – Auguste Escoffier
Recipe Description
Minestrone Soup is a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and rich nutritional profile. This soup dates back to ancient Rome, where it was originally a humble dish made with leftovers and seasonal vegetables. Over time, minestrone evolved, incorporating a variety of regional ingredients. The beauty of minestrone lies in its adaptability; it can be made with whatever vegetables are on hand, making it perfect for any season. Typically, it includes a mix of beans, tomatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and pasta or rice, all simmered in a savory broth. This hearty and wholesome soup not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Procedure
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by dicing the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Trim and cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Season the Soup: Add the dried oregano and basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add Beans and Pasta: Stir in the cannellini beans and pasta. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Traditional Minestrone Soup, a hearty and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. Perfect for any time of the year, this versatile soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Additional Notes
- For added flavor, you can include a Parmesan rind in the soup while it simmers and remove it before serving.
- Minestrone can be customized with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
Beverage Pairings
Minestrone pairs well with a variety of beverages:
- Wine: A light red wine such as Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of the soup.
- Beer: A pale ale or a light lager can also be a refreshing pairing.
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a chilled herbal tea works well too.
