There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Hearty Minestrone Soup, especially on a chilly day. This classic Italian soup is packed with nutritious vegetables, tender beans, and al dente pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s a wholesome, delicious meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Let’s dive into making the best Hearty Minestrone Soup!
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The Best Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipes
Hearty Minestrone Soup is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your taste or whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch or a warming dinner, this recipe will not disappoint. The combination of fresh ingredients and robust flavors makes this soup a staple in any kitchen.
Notes on Ingredients
For this Hearty Minestrone Soup, the choice of fresh vegetables is crucial. Onions, carrots, and celery form the flavorful base, while cannellini beans and potatoes add heartiness. The shredded cabbage gives a subtle sweetness, and the dried parsley, tomato paste, and minced garlic elevate the overall taste. Using a good quality chicken broth ensures a rich, savory flavor, and the elbow macaroni provides the perfect texture. Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese to garnish – it adds a delightful salty finish.
How to Make Hearty Minestrone Soup
- Preparation: Start by melting 4 tablespoons of margarine in a heavy stockpot over medium heat.
- Sauté: Add ¾ cup chopped onion, ½ cup chopped carrots, and ¼ cup chopped celery. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Simmer: Add 1 (32 ounce) container of chicken broth, 1 (19 ounce) can of cannellini beans, 1 (14.5 ounce) can of stewed tomatoes, 1 ½ cups cubed potatoes, ½ cup shredded cabbage, 2 tablespoons dried parsley, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil.
- Cook: Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 1 hour.
- Pasta: Add ½ cup elbow macaroni and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Finish: Adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Hearty Minestrone Soup
Serve this hearty soup hot, ladled into deep bowls. Accompany it with lightly toasted bread to mop up every delicious drop of the rich, tomato-based broth. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of flavor.
How to Store Hearty Minestrone Soup
To store, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 269.23 kcal | 13% |
| Total Fat | 10.3 g | 15% |
| Carbs | 34.41 g | 13% |
| Sugars | 6.15 g | 7% |
| Protein | 11.82 g | 24% |
| Sodium | 1494.37 mg | 75% |
| Fiber | 8.35 g | 30% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.75 g | 14% |
| Trans Fat | 1.39 g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4.33 g | – |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.48 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 8.7 mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 194.38 mg | 24% |
| Magnesium | 33.68 mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 780.01 mg | 22% |
| Iron | 3.88 mg | 28% |
| Zinc | 0.79 mg | 8% |
| Phosphorus | 130.15 mg | 19% |
| Vitamin A | 691.98 mcg | 86% |
| Vitamin C | 18.83 mg | 24% |
| Thiamin B1 | 0.13 mg | 12% |
| Riboflavin B2 | 0.19 mg | 14% |
| Niacin B3 | 1.65 mg | 10% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.21 mg | 15% |
| Folic Acid B9 | 21.94 mcg | 11% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.14 mcg | 6% |
| Vitamin D | 0.04 mcg | 1% |
| Vitamin E | 1.75 mg | 15% |
| Vitamin K | 26.02 mcg | 35% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
FAQs About Hearty Minestrone Soup
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with other types like kidney beans or chickpeas.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried parsley?
Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more. Use three times the amount of fresh parsley as you would dried.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?
If you plan to store leftovers, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings to maintain its texture.
The Best Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons margarine
- ¾ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- ¼ cup chopped celery
- 1 32 ounce container chicken broth
- 1 19 ounce can cannellini beans
- 1 14.5 ounce can stewed tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups cubed potatoes
- ½ cup shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup elbow macaroni
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a heavy stockpot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until beginning to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add broth, beans, tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, parsley, tomato paste, garlic, and salt; bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 1 hour. Add pasta and simmer for 30 minutes more. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese.
