Hearty Minestrone Soup

This Minestrone Soup is a classic Italian favorite, loaded with fresh vegetables, beans, pasta, and herbs in a rich tomato broth. It's warm, filling, and incredibly nourishing — the perfect comfort food for any time of year. Bonus: It’s easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand!

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Yield

Serves 6-8

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup uncooked small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Zucchini and Green Beans

1. Stir in the zucchini and green beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and the vegetable broth.
2. Add the oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta

1. Add the cannellini beans, kidney beans, and pasta to the pot.
2. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Add Greens

1. Stir in the spinach (or kale) and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories,240,Carbohydrates (g),35,Fat (g),7,Protein (g),9,Fiber (g),9,Sugar (g),7,Sodium (mg),590

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Tips for Success

1. Customize the Veggies: Add or substitute with whatever vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers, potatoes, or peas.
2. Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with rice.
3. Add Protein: For extra heartiness, add cooked chicken or Italian sausage.
4. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for added depth of flavor.
5. Storage: Minestrone soup keeps well! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

This Minestrone Soup is hearty, healthy, and satisfying — perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day!