Description
This vegetarian Minestrone Soup is a hearty and fresh take on the classic Italian vegetable soup. Packed with beans, fresh vegetables, pasta, and aromatic herbs, it makes a flavorful and comforting meal, perfect when served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Pantry
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, several grinds
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups cooked white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ cup small pasta (elbows, shells, or orecchiette)
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, optional, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, sliced celery, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 8 minutes, until the vegetables are softening but not browned.
- Add aromatics and liquids: Stir in the grated garlic, canned diced tomatoes, cooked beans, chopped green beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook pasta: Uncover the pot and stir in the small pasta. Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and fully cooked through.
- Season and serve: Adjust seasoning to taste with additional salt and freshly ground pepper. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat if desired, and grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Notes
- This soup is vegetarian and can be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
- Use any small pasta shape like elbows, shells, or orecchiette based on your preference.
- For added protein, substitute or add cooked kidney beans or white beans.
- Simmer gently to avoid overcooking the pasta and vegetables.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian