How to Make a Hearty Italian Soup for Dinner
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a hearty Italian soup. Rich in flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients, an Italian soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Follow this simple recipe to create your own deliciously satisfying Italian soup for dinner.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make a hearty Italian soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to cook your hearty Italian soup:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer.
3. Incorporate Beans and Greens
After about 10 minutes, add the cannellini beans, spinach or kale, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow everything to simmer together for another 5-10 minutes until the greens are wilted and flavors meld perfectly.
4. Final Touches
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. If you like a little kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly.
5. Serve Hot
Serve your hearty Italian soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete dinner experience.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Soup
- For added flavor, consider using homemade broth or adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers.
- You can personalize your soup by adding other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.
- This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later.
Making a hearty Italian soup is a simple yet rewarding endeavor. With just a few fresh ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy your homemade Italian soup tonight!