Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs a chill settles in and I reach for a comforting bowl of Hearty Vegetarian Minestrone Soup, I can’t help but feel the warmth of home. This delightful dish is stuffed with vibrant veggies and hearty beans, making it both nourishing and satisfying, yet light enough to enjoy without that heavy feeling. What I love most is its incredible adaptability; you can easily customize it to fit your personal taste or whatever you have on hand. Ready in about 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when all you want is something soothing. So, are you ready to create a bowl of happiness that’s as comforting as a hug? Let’s dive right in! Why is Minestrone Soup a Must-Try? Comforting and Hearty: This Minestrone Soup is the ultimate cure for a chilly day, packed with nutritious vegetables and creamy beans. Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. Customizable Goodness: With endless variations, you can tailor your soup to fit any palate—swap in seasonal veggies or your favorite beans! Nutrient-Rich: Bursting with vitamins and fiber, it’s not just a meal but a healthy choice that’ll keep you feeling great. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad to impress your family or guests—everyone will be asking for seconds! Minestrone Soup Ingredients Here’s everything you need to create a delicious pot of Minestrone Soup that warms the heart. For the Soup Base Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; can use vegetable oil for a lighter option. Onion – Provides a flavorful base; no substitutions recommended. Garlic – Enhances aroma and taste; use fresh or dried for convenience. Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips for a different flavor. Celery – Contributes crunch and savory notes; no substitutions recommended. Zucchini – For a tender, soft texture; substitute with yellow squash if desired. Green Beans – Adds freshness and crunch; frozen green beans can be used directly. For the Broth Canned Diced Tomatoes – Base for the broth providing acidity; can substitute with fresh tomatoes in season. Vegetable Broth – Provides the liquid base; substitute with chicken broth for non-vegetarian options. For Protein and Heartiness Cannellini Beans – Adds protein and creamy texture; substitute with kidney beans or chickpeas if preferred. Pasta – Adds heartiness; use any small pasta; gluten-free pasta works well for dietary needs. For Seasoning Dried Oregano – Essential for that Italian flavor; fresh herbs can elevate the taste even further. Basil – Complements the soup; use fresh for a more robust flavor. Salt and Pepper – Offers essential seasoning; adjust to taste. For the Fresh Finish Spinach or Kale – Adds a fresh touch and nutrients; frozen can be substituted if fresh is unavailable. Parmesan Cheese – A lovely finishing touch for flavor; omit for a vegan option or substitute with nutritional yeast. Feel free to get creative and switch up these ingredients based on what you have at home; that’s the beauty of this comforting Minestrone Soup! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Vegetarian Minestrone Soup Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes. This will form the flavorful base for your Minestrone Soup. Be sure to swirl the oil around to coat the bottom evenly, readying it for the aromatic ingredients to follow. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Add 1 diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks to the pot. Sauté these for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened and the onions turn translucent. The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s time to introduce the next layer of goodness. Step 3: Incorporate Zucchini and Green Beans Stir in 1 chopped zucchini and 1 cup of trimmed green beans. Continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to just begin to soften. This step adds fresh color and crunch to the mix, keeping your Minestrone Soup vibrant and hearty. Step 4: Add the Tomato Base Pour in one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, along with 4 cups of vegetable broth and 1 can of drained cannellini beans. Stir everything well, ensuring the ingredients are evenly combined. The luscious broth will start to bubble gently, infusing all the flavors together. Step 5: Mix in Pasta and Seasonings Add 1 cup of small pasta of your choice along with 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir these ingredients into your soup and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching for the pasta to soften as you cook it. Step 6: Let it Simmer Lower the heat to let your Minestrone Soup simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom. You’ll know it’s done when the pasta is tender and the veggies are cooked through, creating a warming atmosphere in your home. Step 7: Stir in Leafy Greens Add 2 cups of fresh spinach or kale to the pot and stir gently for 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt perfectly. This will not only add a nutrient boost but will also introduce a lovely splash of color to your Minestrone Soup, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Step 8: Final Touches and Serve Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed, possibly adding a pinch more salt or pepper. Ladle the hearty Minestrone Soup into bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. This final step elevates the flavors, ensuring each spoonful feels like a warm hug. Expert Tips for Minestrone Soup Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh vegetables enhances flavor and texture. Avoid wilted or old produce to keep your Minestrone Soup vibrant and delicious. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To prevent mushy noodles, add pasta towards the end of cooking. Adjust timing based on the type of pasta you’re using for perfect results. Customize to Taste: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or beans. Minestrone Soup is highly customizable, allowing you to use what you have on hand! Proper Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the soup base without pasta and greens. Adjust Seasoning at the End: Always taste your soup before serving, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Fresh herbs added just before serving can elevate the flavor! What to Serve with Hearty Vegetarian Minestrone Soup As you gather around the table for a bowl of savory delight, consider these perfect accompaniments to round out your meal. Crusty Artisan Bread: This is perfect for soaking up the rich broth. A slice of warm, crusty bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the soup’s hearty textures. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. The crisp vegetables awaken your palate after each comforting spoonful. Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky treats are a family favorite, making each bite of soup feel extravagant. Perfect for dipping, these breadsticks enhance the overall experience. Parmesan Crisps: Crispy, thin cheese wafers offer a savory crunch. Their rich flavor pairs beautifully with the soup, bringing a delightful twist to your meal. Zesty Lemon Sorbet: Following your hearty soup, a light dessert like lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate. Its brightness refreshes the taste buds and makes for a memorable finish. White Wine: An off-dry white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, harmonizes with the soup’s flavors. The crisp acidity enhances the dish, making each sip a lovely complement to the warm bowl before you. Feel free to mix and match these options to create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the comfort of your Hearty Vegetarian Minestrone Soup! Make Ahead Options These Hearty Vegetarian Minestrone Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can chop vegetables like onion, carrots, celery, and zucchini up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For best flavor, keep the dried herbs and canned tomatoes separate until you are ready to cook. You can also prepare the soup base (without pasta and leafy greens) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the soup, stir in your cooked pasta and spinach or kale, and enjoy a delightful, homemade meal that’s just as comforting as when you first made it! How to Store and Freeze Minestrone Soup Fridge: Store your cooked Minestrone Soup in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days. This keeps the freshness locked in and ready for quick reheating. Freezer: To freeze, cool the soup completely and ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the texture. Avoid Freezing with Pasta: If you’re freezing the soup, omit the pasta and leafy greens. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve your comforting Minestrone Soup to prevent mushiness. Minestrone Soup Variations You’ll Love Feel free to play around with this comforting Minestrone Soup recipe, letting your creativity shine with every bowl you serve! Seasonal Vegetables: Swap in whatever’s fresh from your garden or farmer’s market. Think spring peas, corn in summer, or hearty root veggies in fall—this soup embraces change like an old friend! Protein-Packed: Trade cannellini beans for cooked chicken or chickpeas if you’re looking for extra protein. This twist not only adds heartiness but also a lovely flavor variation that makes each bite exciting. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level. Perfect for those who crave a little spice to warm their souls on chilly evenings. Gluten-Free: Replace pasta with rice or gluten-free noodles to cater to dietary needs. This ensures everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl without compromise! Herb Enhance: Boost the flavor further by including fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Toss them in at the end for a fragrant finish that lifts the soup’s essence. Creamy Twist: Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture! It’s a delightful surprise that adds richness and comfort to every spoonful. Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving brings a refreshing brightness, balancing the savory elements beautifully. It’s like a ray of sunshine in your bowl! Miso Infusion: For an umami twist, stir in a spoonful of miso paste to your broth. This adds depth and layers of flavor that will transform your Minestrone Soup into something extraordinary. For even more delicious inspirations, check out my recipes for Kielbasa Potato Soup and Miso Soup Comforting. The possibilities are endless—get cooking, and make this soup your own! Hearty Vegetarian Minestrone Soup Recipe FAQs What’s the best way to choose ripe vegetables for Minestrone Soup? Absolutely! Selecting the best vegetables can elevate your Minestrone Soup. Look for vibrant, firm veggies without dark spots. For instance, choose zucchini that’s shiny and unblemished, and carrots that are bright and crunchy. Freshness enhances flavor, making your soup even more comforting. How should I store leftover Minestrone Soup, and how long can I keep it? After cooking, allow your Minestrone Soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Just make sure to let it cool to room temperature first to keep it fresh and delicious! Can I freeze Minestrone Soup, and how should I do it? Of course! To freeze your Minestrone Soup, let it cool completely. Then, ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember, for optimal texture, freeze the soup base without the pasta and leafy greens; you can add those fresh when you reheat it. What should I do if the pasta in my soup is mushy? Very good question! If your pasta ends up mushy, it may have cooked too long. For next time, add it to the pot later in the cooking process—around the last 10 minutes of simmering. You can also keep cooked pasta separate and add it to individual bowls when serving, maintaining that perfect al dente texture every time. Are there any dietary considerations for this Minestrone Soup? Absolutely! This vegetarian Minestrone Soup can be adapted for various diets. If you have food allergies, remember to substitute the pasta with gluten-free options; quinoa or brown rice make great alternatives! For vegan preferences, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Comforting Minestrone Soup You’ll Love to Customize This comforting Minestrone Soup is a hearty, customizable dish filled with veggies and beans, perfect for a chilly day. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: SoupCuisine: ItalianCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use vegetable oil for a lighter option.1 medium Onion Provides a flavorful base; no substitutions recommended.3 cloves Garlic Enhances aroma and taste; use fresh or dried for convenience.2 medium Carrots Substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.2 stalks Celery Contributes crunch and savory notes; no substitutions recommended.1 medium Zucchini Substitute with yellow squash if desired.1 cup Green Beans Frozen green beans can be used directly.For the Broth1 14-ounce can Canned Diced Tomatoes Can substitute with fresh tomatoes in season.4 cups Vegetable Broth Substitute with chicken broth for non-vegetarian options.For Protein and Heartiness1 can Cannellini Beans Substitute with kidney beans or chickpeas if preferred.1 cup Pasta Use any small pasta; gluten-free pasta works well for dietary needs.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Essential for that Italian flavor.1 teaspoon Basil Use fresh for a more robust flavor.Salt Adjust to taste.Pepper Adjust to taste.For the Fresh Finish2 cups Spinach or Kale Frozen can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.Parmesan Cheese Omit for a vegan option or substitute with nutritional yeast. Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes.Add 1 diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks to the pot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.Stir in 1 chopped zucchini and 1 cup of trimmed green beans, sautéing for an additional 2-3 minutes.Pour in one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 can of drained cannellini beans.Add 1 cup of small pasta and 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.Lower the heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes.Add 2 cups of fresh spinach or kale and stir gently for 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt.Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed before serving with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 10gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesUsing fresh vegetables enhances flavor and texture. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Adjust seasoning before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
