What is Minestrone Soup?
Minestrone is a vegetable-based soup originating from Italy. It is known for its rich flavors and abundant mix of ingredients such as seasonal vegetables, legumes, pasta or rice, and aromatic herbs. Minestrone is a versatile dish that can vary from region to region, allowing for customization based on personal preferences or the availability of local produce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before starting your minestrone adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup of green beans, chopped
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 cup of cooked cannellini beans
- 1 cup of small pasta (such as macaroni or ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the cooked cannellini beans and pasta. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serving and Enjoying Minestrone Soup
Your homemade minestrone soup is now ready to be savored! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Remember, the beauty of minestrone is its versatility, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients or adapt the recipe based on your dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or as a refreshing summer soup, minestrone never fails to satisfy both the palate and the soul.
Buon appetito!