How to Make an Authentic Italian Vegetable Minestrone
Minestrone is a traditional Italian soup that's hearty, nutritious, and perfect for any season. This authentic Italian vegetable minestrone recipe is easy to prepare and is packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta. Follow this guide to create a delicious, comforting bowl of minestrone that will transport you straight to Italy.
Ingredients for Authentic Italian Vegetable Minestrone
To make a flavorful minestrone, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions to Prepare Minestrone
Follow these steps to make your authentic Italian vegetable minestrone:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, incorporate the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juice and the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, bringing it to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Beans and Seasoning
Add the kidney beans, dried oregano, and dried basil to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
In a separate pot, cook the small pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the soup has simmered and the vegetables are tender, stir in the cooked pasta. Allow everything to heat through for a few minutes. Serve the minestrone hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Minestrone
- Fresh Vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and freshness.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the minestrone by adding other vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas.
- Storage: Leftover minestrone can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Enjoy this authentic Italian vegetable minestrone as a main dish or a side with crusty bread. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a great way to incorporate a variety of healthy vegetables into your diet!