Are you craving a comforting and nourishing bowl of soup that bursts with flavor? Look no further than this mouth-watering Hearty Minestrone Soup recipe! This classic Italian dish is a beloved favorite for good reason – it’s packed with an array of vibrant veggies, tender pasta, and a rich, savory broth that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Minestrone is the epitome of a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a pick-me-up. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it with your favorite veggies and even sneak in some extra protein. Trust us, this recipe is a game-changer that’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the kidney beans and pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the spinach or kale and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
