The Best Italian Soups for a Quick Meal

Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes, and soups are no exception. Here’s a selection of the best Italian soups that are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making them perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Minestrone

Minestrone is a hearty vegetable soup that varies by region, often incorporating seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta. To make a quick version, start by sautéing onion, garlic, and your choice of chopped vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and spinach. Add vegetable broth and a can of diced tomatoes, then stir in small pasta and beans. Simmer until the pasta is tender, and season with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.

Pasta e Fagioli

This classic soup combines pasta and beans, providing a comforting and filling meal. To whip this up quickly, cook diced onion, garlic, and pancetta in a pot until aromatic. Add canned cannellini beans, vegetable or chicken broth, and small pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and perfect served with crusty bread.

Chicken Limone Soup

This refreshing soup features chicken, lemon, and vegetables. Use pre-cooked shredded chicken to speed up cooking time. In a pot, sauté garlic and onion, then add chicken broth, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Bring to a boil, then stir in the chicken and lemon juice. Finish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an added zest.

Italian Tomato Soup

A classic Italian tomato soup can be made in minutes using canned tomatoes. Sauté chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until soft, add canned tomatoes and vegetable broth, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Blend until smooth, then serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a touch of freshness.

Ribollita

Ribollita is a Tuscan vegetable soup that primarily uses leftover bread to create a thick consistency. Rapidly prepare a simplified version by cooking chopped onions, carrots, and kale in olive oil. Add canned tomatoes, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth. Stir in torn pieces of stale bread and continue cooking until it thickens. This soup is not only quick but also a great way to reduce food waste!

Stracciatella

Stracciatella is an Italian egg drop soup, which is a light option that's well-suited for a quick meal. Begin by heating chicken broth in a pot, then slowly drizzle in beaten eggs while stirring gently to create soft ribbons. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese, adding fresh spinach or herbs just before serving for an extra flavor boost.

These Italian soups are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making them an excellent choice for a nourishing and quick meal option. Whether you're in the mood for something hearty or light, there's a perfect Italian soup for every palate.