Minestrone Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or small shells)
• 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Zucchini and Green Beans Add diced zucchini and chopped green beans to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Pour in Broth Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Add dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.

Step 5: Cook Pasta Add the small pasta to the simmering soup and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Step 6: Add Leafy Greens Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook until wilted.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to your preference.

Step 8: Serve Ladle the Minestrone Soup into bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.

Step 9: Enjoy! Serve this hearty Minestrone Soup with crusty bread and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Italian classic.

Warm up with a bowl of homemade Minestrone Soup—a wholesome and satisfying dish that's perfect for any season. Customize the ingredients to suit your taste and enjoy the delightful medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta.