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This vegetarian Minestrone Soup is a comforting, nutritious classic that balances hearty vegetables, protein-rich beans, and tender pasta, making it a satisfying meal on its own or paired with crusty bread.
Packed with fiber from carrots, celery, and green beans, and plant-based protein from white or kidney beans, it supports digestive health and keeps you full longer.
The use of extra-virgin olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the tomato base provides a dose of antioxidants like lycopene.
This recipe is low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome, plant-forward dish.
The soup’s straightforward prep and one-pot cooking method make it a quick, everyday option that’s perfect for meal prepping or busy weeknights.
Plus, the flexibility to customize with pasta shapes or add optional Parmesan ensures it satisfies diverse tastes.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Staub Dutch Oven
This heavy-duty, enameled cast iron pot delivers even heat distribution and retention, essential for slowly softening vegetables and simmering soup to develop rich flavors. Beyond this recipe, it’s perfect for braises, stews, and baking bread.
Chef’s Knife
A sharp, sturdy chef’s knife is vital for efficiently dicing onions, chopping carrots, and slicing celery with precision, ensuring even cooking and a pleasant texture throughout the soup.
Microplane Grater
Ideal for finely grating garlic, this tool releases the garlic’s full aroma and flavor quickly without any large chunks, elevating the soup’s depth and complexity.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurement of broth, herbs, and seasonings guarantees balanced flavors and consistent results every time you make the soup or other recipes.
Wooden Spoon
Perfect for stirring the soup gently without damaging your cookware, helping to combine ingredients evenly and prevent sticking during simmering.
Minestrone Soup
Equipment
- 1 Staub Dutch Oven (or similar large heavy pot)
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Microplane Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons (various)
- 1 Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 2 medium carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt plus extra for seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 garlic cloves finely grated or minced
- 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1½ cups cooked white beans or kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup fresh green beans trimmed and chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ cup small pasta shapes such as elbow macaroni, shells, or orecchiette
- ½ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Red pepper flakes optional, for added heat
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and sliced celery. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and grind in some black pepper. Stir occasionally, cooking the vegetables gently for about 8 minutes, until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Build the Flavor Base: Add the grated garlic to the softened vegetables and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, so the garlic releases its aroma without burning. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the rinsed beans, chopped green beans, and vegetable broth.
- Season and Simmer: Toss in the bay leaves, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Stir everything to combine, then bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- Cook the Pasta: Remove the lid and stir in the small pasta shapes. Continue cooking the soup uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Final Touches and Serve: Discard the bay leaves and taste the soup, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. For a richer finish, serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side
Notes
- Beans: Using canned beans saves time, but you can also use freshly cooked beans if preferred. Rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium content.
- Vegetable broth: For deeper flavor, opt for a homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought version.
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes work best to evenly distribute throughout the soup. If you plan to store leftovers, slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
- Make it vegan: Simply omit the Parmesan cheese garnish or use a plant-based alternative.
- Storage: This soup keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Chef’s Secrets for Rich Flavor
Creating a deeply flavorful minestrone starts with patiently sautéing your aromatics—onion, carrots, and celery—until they soften and release their natural sweetness.
This step builds the soup’s savory base, so resist the urge to rush it.
Grating fresh garlic rather than chopping helps it blend smoothly into the broth without overpowering any bites.
Using quality extra-virgin olive oil adds subtle fruitiness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
When simmering, keep the heat low and covered to let the flavors meld gently.
Adding dried herbs like oregano and thyme infuses warmth and earthiness, but fresh parsley stirred in at the end adds a bright, fresh contrast.
Finally, remember to season gradually and taste often—balancing salt and pepper is key to making this soup shine.
Serving Suggestions to Enhance Experience
Minestrone is wonderfully versatile, pairing well with a variety of accompaniments.
Serve it with a side of crusty artisan bread or garlic focaccia to soak up the rich tomato broth.
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top elevates the dish instantly.
For a heartier meal, add a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which complements the soup’s robust flavors.
If you want to add protein, consider topping with a dollop of pesto or serving alongside grilled chicken or sautéed sausage.
For a plant-based twist, nutritional yeast sprinkled over the soup provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Storage Tips for Freshness Retention
To store leftover minestrone, cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to four days, making sure to stir well before reheating to redistribute flavors.
Because the pasta can absorb liquid over time, add a splash of vegetable broth or water when warming to restore the soup’s consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the soup without pasta to avoid mushiness; add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Label containers with the date to keep track, and thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minestrone
Q1: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the pasta with gluten-free varieties or omit pasta altogether and add extra beans or vegetables to maintain thickness.
Q2: What beans work best in minestrone?
White beans like cannellini or navy beans are classic, but kidney beans or chickpeas can be used for variety and texture.
Q3: Is it possible to prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely. Minestrone often tastes better the next day as flavors develop. Just store the soup separately from the pasta if possible, or slightly undercook the pasta to avoid sogginess.
Q4: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used but add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors, while dried herbs work best when simmered longer.
Q5: How can I make this soup more filling?
Add extra beans, swap small pasta for whole grains like barley or farro, or include diced potatoes for heartiness.
This recipe is inspired by loveandlemons and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.