Name: Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini); 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

A warm bowl of minestrone soup is like a hug in a bowl—hearty, wholesome, and packed with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and savory broth. This comforting Italian classic is more than just soup; it’s a complete, nourishing meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. Whether you’re looking to clean out the fridge or serve up a nutritious dinner for the family, minestrone is always a reliable go-to.

From its rustic roots to its satisfying blend of textures and flavors, minestrone is endlessly customizable. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal vegetables and adapt to whatever you have on hand. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of parmesan, and you’ve got a dinner that feeds both body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Minestrone Soup

This minestrone soup recipe checks all the boxes: it’s filling, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful. It’s vegetarian-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Best of all, it gets better as it sits, so leftovers taste even richer the next day. You’ll love how this recipe brings comfort without the heaviness—ideal for cozy nights or easy lunches.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short-cut pasta is the way to go for minestrone. Think ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells—something that fits easily on a spoon and holds up well in broth. Avoid long noodles, as they can become tangled and unwieldy in the soup. If you want to go gluten-free, you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, just add it toward the end to avoid mushiness.

Ingredients for the Minestrone Soup

This soup brings together a variety of ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering its signature flavor and heartiness:

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps bring out the natural flavors of the veggies during sautéing.
Onion & Garlic – These aromatics are the flavor base, infusing the soup with deep, savory notes.
Carrots & Celery – Classic soup veggies that add natural sweetness and crunch.
Zucchini – Offers a mild flavor and tender bite, perfect for soaking up broth.
Diced Tomatoes (canned) – Provides a rich tomato base and slight acidity that balances the soup.
Kidney Beans & Cannellini Beans – Add protein, texture, and a creamy contrast.
Vegetable Broth – The liquid base that brings everything together with savory depth.
Small Pasta (like ditalini) – Gives the soup body and heartiness, making it a complete meal.
Spinach or Kale – Adds color, nutrients, and a slightly earthy taste.
Italian Seasoning & Bay Leaf – Infuses the soup with traditional herbaceous flavor.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.

How To Make the Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until they start to soften and smell fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Main Ingredients

Stir in the zucchini, canned tomatoes (with juice), beans, vegetable broth, and seasonings including bay leaf and Italian herbs. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop Flavor

Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes so the vegetables become tender and the broth absorbs all the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Greens

Stir in the pasta and continue cooking until it is al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Add the spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan and crusty bread, if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Minestrone Soup

This minestrone soup serves about 6 to 8 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Serve it hot, ladled into bowls and topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad to round out the meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen with time! If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating. For longer storage, freeze the soup before adding pasta for best texture.

What to Serve With Minestrone Soup?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth and adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Simple Green Salad

A light, refreshing counterbalance to the warm, hearty soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Dip it right into the soup for a comforting combo that’s always a hit.

Bruschetta

Toasted baguette slices topped with tomatoes and basil give a fresh Italian touch.

Roasted Vegetables

Keep things healthy with a tray of oven-roasted seasonal veggies.

Cheese Platter

Serve a variety of cheeses alongside for a fun and elegant twist.

Baked Potatoes

Hearty and customizable, these can be a perfect companion dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, absolutely. Use about 4-5 chopped fresh tomatoes. Simmer them a bit longer to help them break down and release their juices.

Is minestrone soup vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan if you skip the Parmesan topping or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients except pasta and greens to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.

What other beans can I use?
Great northern beans, black beans, or chickpeas are all great substitutions if you don’t have kidney or cannellini beans on hand.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook pasta separately and add it when serving if you’re storing leftovers or freezing the soup.

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Conclusion

Minestrone soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort, nutrition, and versatility in one bowl. With simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to over and over. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or freezing portions for later, this soup fits right into any lifestyle. Don’t forget the Parmesan and bread—they’re the finishing touches that take it to the next level.

Minestrone Soup

Author: Livia Scott
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Craving something cozy, hearty, and packed with goodness? This classic Minestrone Soup is your answer. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea that’s wholesome, flavorful, and loaded with colorful vegetables, beans, and pasta—all simmered in a savory tomato broth. Whether you need a healthy snack, an easy recipe for meal prep, or warm comfort food to please the whole family, this easy dinner checks every box.