Description
A hearty and nourishing soup packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta. Perfect for cozy evenings or a comforting lunch, this minestrone soup brings the flavors of an Italian garden straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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1 medium zucchini, diced
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1 medium potato, peeled and diced
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1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 cup cabbage, shredded
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
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6 cups vegetable broth
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
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½ cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add diced carrots, celery, and potato. Stir to combine with aromatics and cook 5–7 minutes until slightly softened.
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Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and vegetable broth. Stir in oregano, basil, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
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Add zucchini, green beans, and cabbage. Simmer 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
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While soup simmers, cook pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Stir cannellini beans into the soup, followed by cooked pasta. Cook an additional 5 minutes so flavors combine.
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Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
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Use seasonal vegetables or frozen vegetables as needed.
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Soup tastes better the next day as flavors develop.
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Freeze without pasta for up to 3 months; add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
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Optional protein additions: chickpeas, lentils, or small diced chicken.
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Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes