Classic Homestyle Italian Minestrone Soup

Classic Homestyle Italian Minestrone Soup is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with hearty vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, and is flavored with herbs like oregano and thyme. The recipe also includes pasta and beans, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

To make this soup, start by sautéing chopped onion and garlic in a large pot until they are fragrant. Add in chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, and let them cook until they are tender. Then, add in canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and herbs like oregano and thyme, and let the soup simmer until the flavors have melded together. Finally, add in cooked pasta and canned beans, and let the soup simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through. This Classic Homestyle Italian Minestrone Soup is a simple and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Minestrone soup is a traditional Italian soup that dates back to ancient Rome. The word “minestrone” comes from the Italian word “minestra,” which means a thick soup. The soup was originally made with whatever vegetables were in season and could be found in the garden. Over time, the recipe evolved, and today, there are countless variations of this classic soup.

Ingredients:

Here are the ingredients you need to make a classic homestyle Italian minestrone soup:

Broth:

• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 2 cups of water
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup of green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup of small pasta, such as macaroni or ditalini
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to make a classic homestyle Italian minestrone soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by preparing the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrot, celery, potato, and green beans into small pieces.

Step 2: Saute the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and saute for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the carrot, celery, potato, and green beans, and saute for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Add the vegetable broth, water, and crushed tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Cannellini Beans and Pasta
Add the cannellini beans and pasta to the pot. Stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 5: Season the Soup
Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the soup. Stir well to combine. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Step 6: Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, minestrone soup is a classic homestyle Italian soup that is easy to make and delicious to enjoy. This soup is packed with fresh vegetables, beans, pasta, and savory broth, making it a hearty and nutritious meal. Follow the step-by-step guide above to make a delicious pot of minestrone soup at home and enjoy it with your family and friends.

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth if you prefer.

2. Can I add meat to the soup?
Yes, you can add cooked sausage, chicken, or beef to the soup.

3. Can I add meat to the soup?
Yes, you can add cooked sausage, chicken, or beef to the soup for additional protein and flavor.

4. Can I use different vegetables in the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand or prefer. Some popular options include zucchini, kale, spinach, and cabbage.

5. Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.