Minestrone soup has always held a special place in my heart, conjuring up images of cozy Italian kitchens and the comforting aroma of simmering vegetables. Recently, I stumbled upon Natasha Bull’s Minestrone Soup recipe, and let me tell you, it was a revelation. My family, usually a tough crowd to please when it comes to healthy meals, absolutely devoured it. Even my picky eater, who usually shuns anything green, asked for seconds! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s brimming with fresh, wholesome ingredients, is incredibly easy to throw together, and the leftovers? Even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen. If you’re looking for a nourishing, flavorful, and utterly satisfying soup that will become a family favorite, look no further. This Minestrone soup is it.

Ingredients

This vibrant Minestrone soup recipe is a celebration of fresh vegetables and pantry staples. The beauty of Minestrone is its flexibility – feel free to adapt this ingredient list based on what you have on hand and your personal preferences. Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty and flavorful soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil is the foundation of many great Mediterranean dishes, and it’s perfect for sautéing the vegetables at the start of this soup. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and health benefits. The healthy fats in olive oil also contribute to a richer mouthfeel in the final soup. If you are watching your fat intake, you can reduce the amount slightly or even use a light spray of cooking oil, though olive oil truly enhances the flavor profile.
1 tablespoon butter: While olive oil provides a savory base, a tablespoon of butter adds a touch of richness and depth of flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully. The butter melts into the oil, creating a luxurious base for sautéing. You can use salted or unsalted butter depending on your preference and how salty you like your soup. For a vegan option, you can simply omit the butter or use a plant-based butter alternative. Consider browned butter for an even nuttier, deeper flavor profile if you’re feeling adventurous!
1 medium onion, chopped: Onions are aromatic building blocks in countless soups and stews, and Minestrone is no exception. A medium yellow onion is a great all-purpose choice, offering a balanced flavor that’s neither too mild nor too overpowering. When chopping, aim for a consistent size so they cook evenly. Diced onions soften and sweeten as they sauté, creating a flavorful foundation for the soup. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you could use a white onion or even shallots.
2 sticks celery, chopped: Celery adds a subtle herbaceousness and a pleasant textural crunch to the soup. Don’t underestimate celery – it contributes a unique savory note that enhances the overall flavor complexity. Be sure to wash your celery stalks thoroughly and remove any tough outer strings before chopping. Like the onions, aim for a consistent chop size for even cooking. If you’re not a fan of celery, you can reduce the amount or substitute with fennel for a similar anise-like flavor.
3 medium carrots, peeled & sliced: Carrots bring sweetness and vibrant color to the Minestrone. They also add a boost of Vitamin A and fiber. Peeling the carrots ensures a smoother texture in the soup, but if you prefer, you can simply scrub them well and leave the peel on for added nutrients and a slightly more rustic texture. Slicing the carrots into rounds or half-moons allows them to cook through evenly. For a sweeter soup, consider using baby carrots, or for a more intense carrot flavor, try roasting them before adding them to the soup.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a powerhouse of flavor and aroma, and it’s essential in Italian cuisine. Minced garlic infuses the soup with its pungent and savory notes. Fresh garlic is always best, but in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar. To mince garlic properly, use a sharp knife or a garlic press. Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing, as it can become bitter. For a milder garlic flavor, add it later in the sautéing process. Roasted garlic can also be used for a sweeter, mellower garlic taste.
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the rich and flavorful base of the Minestrone broth. Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and readily available year-round, ensuring consistent flavor and texture. Opt for good quality crushed tomatoes for the best results. You can also use diced tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture, or even whole peeled tomatoes that you crush yourself. For a richer tomato flavor, consider using fire-roasted tomatoes.
4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth: Broth is the liquid backbone of the soup, bringing all the ingredients together and creating a flavorful and comforting base. Chicken broth adds a savory depth, while vegetable broth keeps the soup vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Choose low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup. Homemade broth will always elevate the flavor even further. If you want a richer, more intense broth flavor, you can use bone broth or even a combination of broths.
1 small zucchini, chopped: Zucchini adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture to the soup. It’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables and nutrients. Choose a small to medium zucchini for this recipe. No need to peel zucchini – simply wash it and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Other summer squashes like yellow squash or pattypan squash would also work well.
1 cup fresh green beans, chopped: Green beans contribute a fresh, slightly grassy flavor and a satisfying snap to the soup. Choose firm, bright green beans and trim the ends before chopping them into bite-sized pieces. If fresh green beans are not available, you can use frozen green beans, just add them directly to the soup without thawing.
1 (14 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained: Red kidney beans add protein, fiber, and a hearty texture to the Minestrone. Canned kidney beans are convenient and readily available. Be sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the soup to remove excess sodium and any starchy liquid. If you prefer to use dried kidney beans, you’ll need to soak and cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
1 (14 ounce) can white kidney (cannellini) beans, drained: Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, offer a creamy texture and a mild, slightly nutty flavor that complements the red kidney beans beautifully. Like the red kidney beans, be sure to drain and rinse canned cannellini beans before adding them to the soup. You can also use dried cannellini beans if preferred. Other beans like Great Northern beans or navy beans could also be substituted.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that brings classic Italian flavors to the soup. It typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. You can find pre-made Italian seasoning in most grocery stores, or you can make your own blend. For a fresher herb flavor, you can also add fresh oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme instead of or in addition to the dried Italian seasoning.
3/4 cup uncooked elbow macaroni: Elbow macaroni is a classic pasta shape for Minestrone, but you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or orzo. The pasta adds carbohydrates and a satisfying chewiness to the soup, making it a more substantial meal. Uncooked pasta is added directly to the soup and cooks in the broth. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
Salt & pepper to taste: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the soup. Season generously to taste, starting with a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper, and then adjust as needed. Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and add more salt and pepper as needed to achieve the perfect flavor balance. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its bolder flavor.
Fresh basil, optional, to taste: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous aroma and flavor to the soup. It’s best added at the very end of cooking or as a garnish. Chiffonade basil (thinly sliced ribbons) is a beautiful and flavorful garnish. Other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can also be used.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and umami-rich finish to the soup. Freshly grated parmesan is always best for its superior flavor and texture. Serve parmesan cheese on the side so everyone can add as much as they like to their own bowl. Pecorino Romano cheese is a good alternative for a sharper, saltier cheese. For a vegan option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy, umami flavor.

Instructions

Making this Minestrone soup is surprisingly straightforward and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a pot of comforting and delicious soup:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these vegetables for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent. This step is crucial for building flavor – sautéing the vegetables releases their natural sweetness and aromas, creating a flavorful base for the soup. Don’t rush this step; allow the vegetables to soften and slightly caramelize for the best flavor.
Add Garlic and Bloom Spices: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma of garlic releasing in the warm oil and vegetables is a telltale sign that you’re on the right track! Stir in the Italian seasoning and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the heat to “bloom” the spices, releasing their essential oils and enhancing their flavor.
Build the Broth and Add Vegetables: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – these browned bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the soup. Add the chopped zucchini, green beans, red kidney beans, and white kidney beans to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure all the vegetables are submerged in the broth.
Simmer and Infuse Flavors: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low so the soup is simmering gently. Cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar, allowing some steam to escape. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to begin to soften. Simmering is key for developing a rich and complex flavor in soups.
Add Pasta and Cook to Perfection: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Continue simmering the soup, uncovered (or with the lid off), for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and tender and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally, especially during the last 10 minutes of cooking, to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The pasta will absorb some of the broth as it cooks, thickening the soup slightly.
Season and Finish: Before serving, season the soup generously with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust seasonings as needed. If using, stir in the fresh basil just before serving to preserve its bright flavor and color. If you find the soup too thick, especially after it has sat for a while or as leftovers, add a splash more broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot Minestrone soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl generously with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of your homemade Minestrone soup!

Nutrition Facts

This Minestrone soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information. Please note that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories (This is an estimate and can vary based on factors like the amount of olive oil/butter used, the type of broth, and the portion size.)

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approximate):

High in Fiber: Thanks to the abundance of vegetables and beans, this soup is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion, blood sugar control, and satiety.
Good Source of Protein: The beans contribute a significant amount of plant-based protein, making this soup a more substantial and satisfying meal.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The variety of vegetables provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and potassium.
Relatively Low in Fat: While it contains olive oil and butter, the overall fat content is moderate, especially if you use a lighter hand with the fat and choose low-sodium broth.
Heart-Healthy: Packed with vegetables, beans, and olive oil, this soup aligns with heart-healthy dietary recommendations.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

One of the great things about this Minestrone soup is its relatively quick preparation time, making it perfect for weeknight meals.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

This timeframe includes chopping the vegetables, sautéing, simmering, and cooking the pasta. The active cooking time is minimal, allowing you to multitask while the soup simmers away, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas.

How to Serve

Minestrone soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your Minestrone experience:

With Crusty Bread: A classic pairing! Serve warm, crusty bread alongside the soup for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth. Sourdough, Italian bread, or baguette are all excellent choices.
Garlic Bread: Elevate your bread game with garlic bread. The garlicky flavor complements the soup beautifully.
Side Salad: A light and fresh side salad, such as a simple green salad or a Caesar salad, provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a comforting and satisfying meal, pair Minestrone soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. The cheesy, buttery sandwich is a perfect accompaniment to the vegetable-rich soup.
Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their soup. Consider offering:
- Extra Parmesan cheese (grated or shaved)
- Fresh basil leaves (whole or chiffonade)
- Croutons for added crunch
- A drizzle of pesto for extra flavor
- Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- A swirl of olive oil for richness

Additional Tips

To make your Minestrone soup even more exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

Customize Your Vegetables: Minestrone is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand or are in season. Other great additions include:
- Potatoes (diced)
- Sweet potatoes (diced)
- Cabbage (shredded)
- Spinach or kale (added towards the end of cooking)
- Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Peas (fresh or frozen)
- Butternut squash (diced)
Make it Vegetarian or Vegan: Easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan parmesan alternative. Ensure your butter is also plant-based for a fully vegan version.
Boost the Flavor with Parmesan Rind: For an extra layer of savory umami flavor, add a parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers. Remove the rind before serving. The rind infuses the broth with a deep cheesy flavor.
Make it Ahead of Time: Minestrone soup is a fantastic make-ahead dish. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve overnight. Prepare the soup a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Freeze Leftovers: Minestrone soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat from frozen on the stovetop. Note that the pasta may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use different types of beans in Minestrone soup?
A: Absolutely! Minestrone is very flexible. You can substitute or add other types of beans like cannellini beans, Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using dried beans that require longer cooking.

Q: Can I make Minestrone soup vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, easily! To make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, also omit the butter (or use plant-based butter) and skip the parmesan cheese garnish or use a vegan parmesan cheese alternative.

Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
A: Yes, you can use dried beans. You will need to soak them overnight and then cook them separately until tender before adding them to the soup. This will add some extra time to the overall preparation, but dried beans can be more economical and offer a slightly different texture.

Q: Can I make Minestrone soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
A: Yes, both slow cooker and Instant Pot methods work well. For a slow cooker, sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. For an Instant Pot, sauté the vegetables using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients except the pasta. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, with a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release. Stir in the pasta and cook on sauté mode until the pasta is tender.

Q: How long does Minestrone soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Minestrone soup will last for 3-4 days. It’s often even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld and deepen. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.