Classic Minestrone Soup Recipe With Fresh Vegetables And Beans

Name: Classic Minestrone
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 medium ribs celery, chopped; ¼ cup tomato paste; 2 cups chopped seasonal vegetables (such as potatoes, yellow squash, zucchini, butternut squash, green beans, or peas); 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with liquid or 2 small 15-ounce cans; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups water; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 bay leaves; Pinch of red pepper flakes; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 cup whole grain orecchiette, elbow, or small shell pasta; 1 can (15 ounces) Great Northern or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained, or 1½ cups cooked beans; 2 cups baby spinach, chopped kale, or collard greens; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional); Veggies like carrots and celery Add crunch and nutrients; Beans and pasta Provide protein and heartiness; Herbs and spices Boost flavor without extra calories

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Minestrone

This Classic Minestrone is more than just a simple bowl of soup it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, packed with all the good stuff to keep you going. This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal if you’re juggling work, family, or just a busy schedule, without skimping on that hearty feel. Let me share why this Italian favorite has become a go-to in my kitchen, where it’s all about easy cooking that still feels special.

First off, the ease of preparation means you can whip up this soup with minimal fuss. Chop a few veggies, simmer everything in one pot, and you’re done perfect for busy parents or students who need a quick meal. Then, think about the health benefits; it’s loaded with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and seasonal picks such as zucchini or green beans, giving you a boost of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to support your daily wellness. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can be tweaked to be vegan by skipping the cheese, which makes it a hit for diet-conscious folks or anyone exploring new flavors.

What really sets this Classic Minestrone apart is its versatility. You can swap in whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, like potatoes or peas, to make it your own while keeping it gluten-free or low-calorie. The distinctive flavor comes from a mix of tomatoes, herbs, and beans that create a rich, comforting taste you’ll crave again and again. Whether you’re a home cook experimenting in the kitchen or a food enthusiast looking for something nourishing, this soup delivers every time. If you’re into other easy recipes, check out our sweet potato casserole for another cozy side dish that pairs beautifully.

Key Reasons to Try It

It’s straightforward and quick, ready in about an hour.
Loaded with nutrients from fresh, colorful veggies.
Easily adapts to different diets, like vegan or gluten-free.
Offers that classic Italian depth with every bite.

As Isabella Hayes from Recipes Isabella, I love how this soup brings people together around the table, turning simple ingredients into something memorable. It’s just like my blog’s spirit sharing recipes that spark joy and encourage you to cook with what’s in your fridge.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Classic Minestrone
2. Essential Ingredients for Classic Minestrone
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Classic Minestrone: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Classic Minestrone
5. Mastering Classic Minestrone: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Classic Minestrone: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Minestrone
8. Classic Minestrone

Essential Ingredients for Classic Minestrone

When I think about Classic Minestrone, it’s all about gathering those fresh, pantry-friendly items that make this soup so inviting. This hearty Italian vegetable soup uses a tomato-based broth with pasta or rice to create a filling meal that’s naturally vegetarian and can go vegan without the cheese. To keep things simple, we’ll use canned beans and tomatoes, along with everyday spices, onions, and garlic, so you can have dinner ready fast.

Here’s the full list of ingredients you’ll need, pulled straight from my favorite recipe. I’ll lay them out clearly so it’s easy to shop and measure everything just right. Remember, this soup shines with seasonal veggies like potatoes, yellow squash, or green beans, making it a flexible choice for any time of year.

Main Ingredients List

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 medium ribs celery, chopped
¼ cup tomato paste
2 cups chopped seasonal vegetables (such as potatoes, yellow squash, zucchini, butternut squash, green beans, or peas)
4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with liquid or 2 small 15-ounce cans
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 bay leaves
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup whole grain orecchiette, elbow, or small shell pasta
1 can (15 ounces) Great Northern or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained, or 1½ cups cooked beans
2 cups baby spinach, chopped kale, or collard greens
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Special Dietary Notes

For those watching their diet, this recipe is a winner. It’s vegan if you leave out the Parmesan, gluten-free with the right pasta choice, and low-calorie by focusing on veggies. If you’re new to adapting recipes, try our squash dressing recipe for more ideas on seasonal twists. To learn more about Italian soups, visit this external guide on classic varieties.

Ingredient Type	Purpose
Veggies like carrots and celery	Add crunch and nutrients
Beans and pasta	Provide protein and heartiness
Herbs and spices	Boost flavor without extra calories

How to Prepare the Perfect Classic Minestrone: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting this Classic Minestrone just right is easier than you might think, and it only takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. Begin by heating the olive oil in a big pot, then toss in the onions, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and a bit of salt to get those flavors going. Once they’re soft, which takes around 5-7 minutes, add in your seasonal vegetables, garlic, and dried herbs to build that wonderful base.

Next, pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, and spices like bay leaves and red pepper flakes. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes so everything melds together nicely. Then, stir in the pasta, beans, and greens, cooking for another 20 minutes until the pasta is just right and the greens soften up. Finally, take out the bay leaves, mix in the lemon juice and the rest of the olive oil, and tweak the seasoning to your taste. If you like, top it with Parmesan for extra zing it’s that simple!

Detailed Steps

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, tomato paste, and salt; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in seasonal vegetables, garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 3 more minutes to blend the flavors.
Add diced tomatoes, broth, water, salt, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.
Mix in pasta, beans, and greens. Simmer for 20 minutes until pasta is al dente and greens are tender.
Remove bay leaves, stir in lemon juice and remaining olive oil, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with Parmesan if desired.

This soup not only freezes well but also tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen over time.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Classic Minestrone

One of the best parts of Classic Minestrone is how you can tweak it to fit your needs, whether you’re going vegan, gluten-free, or just mixing things up. For protein swaps, try chickpeas instead of cannellini beans to change the texture while keeping it hearty. If you’re not sticking to veggies, adding cooked chicken can make it more filling for busy families.

On the vegetable side, swap zucchini for yellow squash if that’s what you have fresh in your kitchen. You could use fresh tomatoes over canned for a brighter taste, or play with seasonings like adding chili flakes for a kick. For a deeper flavor, switch vegetable broth with mushroom broth it’s all about making this soup your own while staying nutritious and fun to eat.

Mastering Classic Minestrone: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics of Classic Minestrone, let’s dive into ways to level it up. Start with pro techniques like using a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat, so your veggies don’t stick or burn sauté them in stages for the best texture. Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can add a lovely twist, and a splash of white wine brings in some extra complexity that makes every bowl feel gourmet.

For presentation, drizzle on good olive oil and top with grated Parmesan or a vegan alternative, then sprinkle chopped parsley for a pop of color. If you’re prepping ahead, make the soup the day before so the flavors mix and improve it’s perfect for freezing in portions, giving you quick meals on those hectic days. Remember, this soup is versatile, so feel free to use any seasonal veggies or even add Parmesan rinds for more depth.

Flavor and Storage Ideas

Try balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice for a different tangy note.
Experiment with herbs to match your taste.
Always cool soup before freezing for the best results.

How to Store Classic Minestrone: Best Practices

Keeping your Classic Minestrone fresh is key to enjoying it later, and it stores like a dream. Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, so you can have a quick lunch ready. For longer keep, freeze it in meal-sized portions after it cools completely that way, it lasts up to 3 months without losing its charm.

When reheating, warm it gently on the stove to keep the veggies from getting mushy, and stir now and then to avoid any sticking. This makes it a great option for meal prep, letting you grab a healthy, homemade soup anytime you’re in a rush. Since it reheats even better, your flavors get a chance to shine even more.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Minestrone

What ingredients are typically used in a classic minestrone soup?

Classic minestrone soup traditionally includes a variety of vegetables such as onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and green beans. It often features beans like cannellini or kidney beans and may contain pasta or rice. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach can be added depending on availability. The soup is usually cooked in a vegetable or chicken broth and seasoned with garlic, herbs like thyme and bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Parmesan cheese is sometimes added before serving for extra flavor.

How do you make classic minestrone soup from scratch?

To make classic minestrone soup from scratch, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add minced garlic and cook briefly before adding chopped tomatoes and broth. Stir in beans, green beans, and any other seasonal vegetables. Simmer the soup until the vegetables are tender, about 20-30 minutes. Near the end, add small pasta shapes or rice and cook until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread.

Can minestrone soup be made vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, minestrone soup can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting Parmesan cheese or replacing it with a plant-based alternative. The recipe is naturally rich in vegetables and beans, which provide protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for a plant-based diet. Many traditional minestrone recipes are vegetarian, so it’s simple to adapt to vegan preferences by choosing vegan-friendly ingredients.

How long does classic minestrone soup keep in the refrigerator?

Classic minestrone soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. When reheating, bring the soup to a boil to ensure it is heated thoroughly. For longer storage, minestrone soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze in portions for convenient future meals.

What are some common variations of classic minestrone soup?

Common variations of minestrone soup include adding different types of pasta such as ditalini or elbow macaroni, or using barley or rice as a grain alternative. Some recipes incorporate meat like pancetta or Italian sausage for added flavor. Depending on the season, vegetables such as potatoes, kale, or peas can be included. The broth may be tomato-based or more broth-forward without tomatoes for a lighter version. Adjusting herbs and spices allows for regional and personal taste preferences.

Classic Minestrone Soup Recipe with Fresh Vegetables and Beans