The Best Homemade Minestrone Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll love how this homemade minestrone soup brings comfort and flavor to your table in just one pot. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh veggies, and totally customizable to fit your taste.
- Wholesome & hearty – Every spoonful is filled with nutritious ingredients that keep you full and satisfied.
- Simple & speedy – With basic pantry staples and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Endless options – Swap in your favorite veggies or pasta to make it uniquely yours.
Recipe
Minestrone soup is a hearty Italian classic packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. This comforting dish is perfect for any season and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and zucchini, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes:
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them.
- Substitute any vegetables or beans based on preference.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 6
Nutrition
This homemade minestrone soup is packed with wholesome ingredients, offering a nutritious and hearty meal.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
What To Serve With It
When I have minestrone, I love pairing it with warm, crusty bread, like a rustic Italian loaf or a baguette, for dipping into the soup. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese adds a rich, salty touch that really complements the flavors. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll even serve a soft cheese, like mozzarella or burrata, on the side for an extra treat.
Crusty Bread Choices
As I’m whipping up a pot of minestrone, I always think about the perfect crusty bread to serve alongside it—it’s practically a must-have for soaking up that rich, savory broth. I love a classic baguette or a rustic sourdough with its crispy crust and chewy center. If I’m feeling ambitious, I’ll try bread baking techniques like spritzing the oven with water to boost the crustiness. For bread storage tips, I keep it in a paper bag to maintain that crunch. Nothing beats tearing off a warm piece and dipping it into the soup—it’s pure comfort in every bite.
Cheese Pairings Ideas
Pairing cheese with minestrone soup can take it from cozy to downright irresistible. I love adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino Romano right before serving—it melts into the broth, adding a salty, nutty richness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll try a sharp cheddar or creamy Gruyère for extra depth. For wine pairings, a light Pinot Noir or Chianti complements the soup’s earthy flavors perfectly. When serving a crowd, I go for cheese platters with slices of provolone, mozzarella, and even a touch of blue cheese for variety. It’s a simple upgrade that makes every spoonful unforgettable.
