Name: Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; ¾ cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow, or shells); Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

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If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that’s bursting with vibrant vegetables, rich flavors, and nourishing goodness, look no further than this Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe. This classic Italian favorite combines an irresistible medley of fresh vegetables, creamy beans, tender pasta, and fragrant herbs all simmered lovingly in a robust tomato broth. It’s the perfect go-to meal for cozy weeknights or to prep ahead for a satisfying lunch that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various food ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a white bowl filled with dry yellow lentils at the center, surrounded by smaller white bowls containing white beans, clear brown broth, and bright orange sliced carrots. Fresh green beans and chopped celery are placed beside a whole onion at the bottom left. Small piles of spices, including red pepper flakes and ground black pepper, are scattered near fresh green herbs. A wooden spoon rests inside the bowl of lentils, ready to stir. The colors are warm and fresh, with a mix of greens, oranges, yellows, and reds set against clean white bowls and the marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe plays an essential role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together beautifully in one pot. From aromatic garlic to hearty beans and fresh herbs, the list may look simple, but it’s truly the foundation of this soulful soup.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the vegetables evenly.
1 small onion, diced: Builds the savory base with a natural sweetness once softened.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a fragrant punch essential for any Italian dish.
2 carrots, diced: Offers a hint of sweetness and vibrant orange color.
2 celery stalks, diced: Adds crunch and depth to the vegetable mix.
1 zucchini, diced: Provides a tender, fresh bite and balances the tomato richness.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic herb that brings warmth and an earthy aroma.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses the soup with an unmistakable Italian flair.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Creates the vibrant, tangy tomato broth that ties it all together.
4 cups vegetable broth: The soupy backbone delivering depth and hydration to the ingredients.
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and creamy texture, making the soup more filling.
1 cup green beans, chopped: Offers crispness and a fresh pop of green color.
¾ cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow, or shells): Makes the soup wonderfully hearty and satisfying.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish): Brings a bright, herbal freshness just before serving.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): Adds a savory, cheesy finish that’s optional but highly recommended.

How to Make Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in the diced onion and cook it gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent—that soft sweetness you’re aiming for here lays the flavorful groundwork for the entire soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Carrots, and Celery

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing these vegetables to soften and the garlic to release its inviting aroma. These veggies bring an essential crunch and subtle sweetness to your Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe.

Step 3: Mix in Zucchini and Herbs

Now it’s time for the zucchini and dried herbs—oregano and basil. Stir everything together well so the flavors meld. The zucchini adds freshness, while the herbs truly capture that classic Italian essence we all love.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth, Then Simmer

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with all their juices, plus the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This step allows the vegetables to absorb the rich tomato flavor and soften perfectly.

Step 5: Incorporate Beans, Green Beans, and Pasta

Stir in the drained and rinsed beans, chopped green beans, and your choice of small pasta. Let the soup simmer for another 10 to 12 minutes—this ensures the pasta cooks through while the beans heat up and the green beans remain tender-crisp. This final cooking time ties together all the hearty goodness.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the soup hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil and a dusting of grated Parmesan if you like. It’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor with each comforting spoonful of this Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe.

How to Serve Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe

Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs such as parsley or basil right before serving lifts the soup with a burst of freshness and color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese provides a salty, savory note that beautifully rounds out the flavors. For dairy-free options, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil works wonders as a finishing touch.

Side Dishes

To turn this soup into a complete meal, serve it alongside a crusty Italian bread or warm garlic breadsticks. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast that complements the warm, hearty nature of the soup perfectly. For an even more filling dinner, roasted vegetables or a light antipasto plate pair beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe in individual soup ramekins or rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation that impresses guests. Adding a swirl of pesto or a few drops of chili oil on top can elevate the flavors and make your bowl feel extra special. The colorful veggies make this soup a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve with time, making it perfect for make-ahead meals. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe freezes wonderfully in portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. For best texture, freeze the soup before adding pasta, then add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The soup may thicken in the fridge or freezer—simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it back to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or opt for a vegan cheese alternative, and you have a delicious vegan version of this Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe.

What pasta works best in minestrone?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal because they cook quickly and nestle nicely in every spoonful without overpowering the veggies and beans.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! If using fresh oregano and basil, add them towards the end of cooking or as a garnish to preserve their bright flavors. Generally, substitute about three times the amount of fresh herbs for dried.

How long does it take to cook the pasta in the soup?

Usually, small pasta in the minestrone cooks in about 10 to 12 minutes once added to the simmering soup. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking and turning mushy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Seasonal veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers can be added for variety and extra nutrients. Add leafy greens in the final minutes so they stay vibrant and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Italian Vegetable Soup (Minestrone) Recipe is truly a timeless classic that brings warmth, nutrition, and heart to any dining table. Once you’ve made it, you’ll realize how simple ingredients can transform into something incredibly nourishing and delicious. Don’t hesitate to make it part of your weekly rotation—you’ll soon understand why it’s a favorite in so many kitchens.