How to Make Italian Minestrone Soup for Dinner

If you're looking for a hearty and wholesome dish to warm you up, Italian minestrone soup is a fantastic choice. This classic Italian recipe is filled with vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for any dinner. Follow this simple guide to prepare a delicious pot of minestrone soup.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make authentic Italian minestrone soup, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions for Making Minestrone Soup

Follow these steps to create your minestrone soup:

  1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Add the remaining vegetables: Stir in the diced zucchini and green beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
  4. Incorporate the broth and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir well.
  5. Add the beans and seasonings: Mix in the cannellini beans, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  6. Cook the pasta: Once boiling, add the small pasta of your choice. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
  7. Garnish and serve: Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Tips for the Best Minestrone Soup

For an even more flavorful minestrone soup, consider these helpful tips:

  • Add seasonal vegetables for variety – spinach, kale, or even pumpkin can lend unique flavors.
  • If you prefer a meat version, toss in some diced pancetta or Italian sausage at the beginning.
  • For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
  • Feel free to play with herbs like rosemary or parsley to elevate the flavor.

Italian minestrone soup is not only delicious but also versatile and nutritious. This recipe serves as a perfect foundation for you to create your own variations. Enjoy your warming, satisfying minestrone soup for dinner!