Minestrone Italian Soup
Minestrone is a hearty, vegetable-packed soup with beans and pasta, offering a warm and nourishing dish. It’s perfect for family gatherings and is highly adaptable.
Equipment
- Large saucepan or pot
- Ladle
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Vegetable peeler
- Wooden spoon
- Blender (optional)
- Can opener
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 zucchini chopped
- 2 potatoes diced
- 1 cup cabbage or spinach chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes or fresh, pureed
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 can beans cannellini, kidney, or chickpeas
- 1 cup small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni
- Fresh herbs basil, rosemary, bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh spinach or other leafy greens
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
- Add zucchini, potatoes, cabbage, and beans. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in pasta and simmer until pasta is al dente.
- Add leafy greens and cook for a few more minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (per cup):
- Calories: 233
- Fat: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 26 grams
- Protein: 7 grams
- Fiber: High
- Vitamins: A, C
- Minerals: Potassium