Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Imagine a chilly evening as the warmth of hearty minestrone soup fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. You're about to embark on a culinary journey with simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Gather your vegetables, creamy white beans, and pasta shells to create this classic dish. Making minestrone is both an art and a comforting ritual.

Before simmering that rich vegetable broth, discover the essential secret to elevate your minestrone from good to unforgettable. Let's explore the possibilities.

Key Takeaways

• Use high-quality ingredients for enhanced flavor and texture in the soup.
• Simmer mixed vegetables in vegetable broth for a rich, hearty base.
• Add diced tomatoes and small pasta shells for a comforting, filling dish.
• Incorporate white beans for added protein and heartiness.
• Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Recipe

Minestrone soup is a delightful Italian dish that brings a comforting blend of flavors and textures to your table. This simplified version uses only five essential ingredients, making it a quick and easy option for busy weeknight dinners. The hearty combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta shells in a rich tomato and vegetable broth creates a nourishing meal that's both satisfying and full of flavor.

This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a classic minestrone with minimal preparation. The key is to focus on high-quality ingredients and let them shine. With a few simple steps, you can have a delicious pot of soup ready to serve in no time. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:

• Mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onions)
• Diced tomatoes (28 oz can)
• White beans (15 oz can)
• Small pasta shells
• Vegetable broth (32 oz)

To prepare this minestrone soup, start by bringing the vegetable broth to a simmer in a large pot. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.

Next, add the diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and stir in the pasta shells, allowing them to cook for about 8 minutes. Finally, add the white beans and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the beans are heated through.

For the best results, ensure all your vegetables are chopped uniformly to promote even cooking. As the soup cools, it will naturally thicken, so feel free to add extra broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Keep in mind that the pasta may continue to absorb liquid when stored, so it's a good idea to cook it separately and add it to individual servings if you plan on having leftovers. This will help maintain the ideal texture of the soup.

Enjoy your hearty minestrone soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Steps

Let's get cooking and transform your kitchen into an Italian haven with this simple, hearty minestrone soup!

Start by simmering your vegetable broth with mixed vegetables, letting them soften and release their flavors, then bring everything to a lively boil with diced tomatoes.

Add in the pasta shells, cook them until they're just right, and finish by simmering the white beans until they're warmed through; don't forget to adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving for that perfect bowl of comfort.

Step 1. Simmer Broth With Vegetables

Start by bringing the vegetable broth to a simmer in a large pot, letting it gently bubble. As you do this, feel the warmth and aroma enveloping your kitchen, setting the stage for a comforting meal.

Add the chopped mixed vegetables—carrots, celery, and onions—into the pot. Watch them dance in the broth, releasing their flavors and colors. This step is crucial, as it gives the soup its hearty backbone.

Let the vegetables cook for about 10 minutes, allowing them to soften just right. During this time, the broth will start absorbing the rich essence of the veggies, creating a fragrant base.

Stir occasionally, ensuring all the vegetables are evenly cooked. This moment is the heart of your minestrone, so enjoy it!

Step 2. Boil With Diced Tomatoes

Once the vegetables have softened in the simmering broth, it's time to introduce the diced tomatoes.

Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes into the pot, letting the rich, tangy flavors meld with the warm broth and tender vegetables. You'll notice the soup's color deepens, creating a vibrant, appetizing hue that's sure to impress.

Stir gently, ensuring the tomatoes blend evenly, and bring the mixture to a boil. This step not only enhances the flavor profile but also infuses the soup with a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.

As the soup boils, the tomatoes release their juices, enriching the broth further. This process sets the foundation for a hearty, comforting bowl of minestrone that's perfect for cozy nights.

Step 3. Add Pasta Shells, Cook

Now, it's time to introduce the pasta shells into your simmering pot. These small pasta shells will soak up the rich flavors, adding comforting texture to your minestrone soup.

Gently sprinkle them into the bubbling broth, making sure they're evenly distributed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the shells to absorb the savory goodness.

As the pasta cooks, the soup thickens, infusing each bite with Italian warmth. Keep an eye on the clock; about 8 minutes should do the trick. You want the pasta tender but not mushy.

This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, hearty consistency we all crave on those cozy nights. With every stirring motion, you're one step closer to a soul-warming bowl of deliciousness!

Step 4. Simmer Beans Until Heated

It's time to add the white beans to your pot, enhancing the soup's texture and flavor. Gently stir them in, ensuring they're well distributed throughout the simmering broth.

The beans will soak up the delicious flavors from the soup while releasing their creamy goodness into the mix. Keep your pot on low heat, allowing the beans to warm gently without breaking apart.

This step is key for developing a rich, hearty taste that makes minestrone so comforting. As the beans warm up, they'll add a satisfying heft to each spoonful.

Keep an eye on the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and savor the enticing aroma filling your kitchen. Enjoy this simple, heartwarming process—it's truly rewarding.

Step 5. Adjust Seasoning Before Serving

Taste is paramount when serving your minestrone soup. Before ladling it into bowls, take a moment to adjust the seasoning.

You've got a flavor-packed base, but a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper can elevate the taste to new heights. Don't hesitate to add a sprinkle of Italian herbs, like basil or oregano, for an extra aromatic touch.

Taste as you go, making sure each spoonful bursts with the vibrant flavors you love. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

This is your chance to make the soup truly yours. Once seasoned to perfection, your minestrone is ready to delight everyone around the table. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your culinary journey with this hearty minestrone soup, consider the simplicity and richness it brings to your table. This dish is more than just a meal; it's an embrace of warmth that invites you to savor every spoonful.

Whether you're sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this soup transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Don't underestimate the joy of creating such a comforting classic with minimal effort. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a delightful experience from start to finish.

Now that you've mastered this recipe, you're ready to explore more Italian dishes. Let each cooking adventure fill your kitchen with warmth and excitement, reminding you how satisfying homemade meals can truly be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh Ones?

Absolutely, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones!

It's a convenient and time-saving option that won't compromise the flavor of your minestrone. Just add the frozen mixed vegetables directly to your simmering broth, and they'll cook beautifully.

This swap makes the recipe even easier, letting you enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade soup without the fuss.

Is It Possible to Make This Soup Gluten-Free?

Oh, gluten, you tricky little protein! Yes, you can make this soup gluten-free, and it's quite easy.

Just swap those small pasta shells for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Trust me, you won't even miss the gluten.

The rich combination of vegetables, beans, and broth will still give you that cozy, Italian hug in a bowl.

How Can I Add More Protein to the Soup?

You can easily boost the protein in your minestrone soup by adding cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu.

Simply dice your choice of protein and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. You could also include another can of beans, like kidney or chickpeas, for extra plant-based protein.

These additions not only make the soup heartier but also enhance its delicious, comforting flavors.

Enjoy your protein-packed creation!

What Herbs or Spices Can Enhance the Flavor?

Imagine you're cooking up a storm on a chilly evening, and your kitchen fills with the rich aroma of Italian herbs.

To enhance your minestrone, add fresh basil or thyme for a delightful twist! These herbs bring a vibrant, earthy depth that elevates the soup's flavor.

Simply chop and sprinkle them in at the end of cooking for maximum impact.

You'll transform your dish into a heartwarming masterpiece, perfect for cozy nights.

Can I Substitute Vegetable Broth With Chicken Broth?

Absolutely, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth in your minestrone!

This swap will add a richer, savory depth to your soup, making it even more comforting.

Just keep in mind, the chicken broth might slightly alter the traditional vegetarian aspect, but it'll still be delicious.

Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors as they mingle with the hearty vegetables and pasta.

Dive in and savor each spoonful of this cozy delight!