– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
– Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for serving (optional)
Creating Classic Minestrone Soup is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Blend everything and let it simmer for another 2 minutes.
5. Add Broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
6. Season Your Soup: Add the cannellini beans, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Cook the Pasta: Stir in your small pasta, continuing to simmer until the pasta is cooked to al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
8. Finish with Greens: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale, cooking until wilted, about 2 minutes.
9. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
10. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast if desired.
Following this guide will help you create an incredible Minestrone Soup that bursts with flavor!