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Classic Minestrone Soup Recipe

Classic Minestrone Soup Recipe - Freshly Ingredients

Growing up, my weekends revolved around kitchen aromas that lingered long after dinner was over. Minestrone soup was a steadfast choice in our home. This dish sings of hearty flavors and nourishes like a warm hug on a chilly day. 
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 123
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus extra for seasoning
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup chopped fresh green beans
  • 1½ cups cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable stock
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¾ cup ¾ cup small pasta shapes
  • ½ cup freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley

Method
 

  1. Here’s how you can recreate this classic dish in your kitchen:
Step 1: Heat Your Oil
  1. Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This small step brings out the flavors right from the get-go.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
  1. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally, letting them soften for about 5–7 minutes. You want these ingredients to sweat and share their flavors.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
  1. Toss in the chopped green beans next. Stir for another 2–3 minutes. They’ll briefly cook, keeping some crunch.
Step 4: Incorporate the Beans and Tomatoes
  1. Next, grab the rinsed cannellini beans and fire-roasted tomatoes. Add them to the pot like a patchwork quilt of colors. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Pour in the Stock
  1. Now, it's time to add the vegetable stock. These liquids marry all the vibrant ingredients, creating a satisfying base.
Step 6: Spice It Up
  1. Introduce bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and paprika. A good stir ensures everything is well distributed. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
  1. After about 15 minutes of simmering, it’s pasta time. Add the small pasta shapes and cook according to package instructions. The pasta should be al dente.
Step 8: Final Touches
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in lemon zest and fresh parsley. Remove the bay leaves and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your minestrone turns out perfect every time:
  • Season Gradually: Add salt little by little. Different stocks have different levels of saltiness.
  • Fresh Herbs Matter: While dried herbs work, fresh herbs really elevate the flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Process: Allow the soup to simmer. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
  • Store in Glass Containers: If keeping leftovers, glass keeps it fresh and prevents staining.
Customize Your Veggies: Use what you have! Zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers fit in well.