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There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of warm, homemade minestrone soup. It’s not just a meal it’s a story of nourishment, tradition, and love in every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re craving something wholesome, this vibrant Italian soup, overflowing with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, delivers comfort and nourishment straight to your soul.
The Heart of Italian Comfort Food
You know that feeling when home starts to smell like something delicious simmering on the stove? That’s the magic of making minestrone soup. Each ingredient like golden Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, aromatic herbs, and sweet tomato base comes together in a symphony of taste and comfort. Whether you’re a lifelong cook or just starting your kitchen journey, this recipe celebrates warmth, health, and easy cooking.
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Healthy Minestrone Soup – Fresh, Hearty & Comforting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade Italian Minestrone Soup made with Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups white or kidney beans, drained
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ¾ cup small pasta (elbows, shells, or orecchiette)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 8 minutes.
2. Add garlic, tomatoes, beans, green beans, broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Simmer 20 minutes.
3. Stir in pasta and cook 10 more minutes.
4. Season to taste, remove bay leaves, stir in parsley, and serve with red pepper flakes and parmesan.
Notes
Use high-quality Graza Sizzle olive oil for best flavor.
Can be made gluten-free by using GF pasta.
Store leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients for Homemade Minestrone Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity | Details/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Use a high-quality EVOO for flavor |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium | Adds base sweetness |
| Carrots, chopped | 2 medium | Provides texture and color |
| Celery ribs, thinly sliced | 2 | Balances flavor |
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon + more to taste | Essential for seasoning |
| Garlic cloves | 3, grated | Adds depth of flavor |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (28 oz) | For a rich, tangy base |
| White or kidney beans, drained | 1½ cups | Adds protein and thickness |
| Green beans, chopped | 1 cup | Fresh, bright texture |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups | Forms the soup base |
| Bay leaves | 2 | Aromatic and earthy |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Classic Italian herb |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Boosts aroma and warmth |
| Small pasta (elbows, shells, or orecchiette) | ¾ cup | Adds heartiness |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | ½ cup | For garnish and freshness |
| Red pepper flakes | To taste | For subtle heat |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | Optional | Adds richness when serving |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatic Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables turn soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Brothy Base
Add garlic, diced tomatoes, beans, green beans, vegetable broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. The kitchen should now smell incredible.
Step 3: Add Pasta for Substance
Stir in the pasta and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaves, then stir in chopped parsley. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan and red pepper flakes for an extra burst of flavor.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use quality olive oil: A rich EVOO like Graza Sizzle enhances every layer of flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute pasta with gluten-free options or rice.
- Customize your veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or kale for seasonal freshness.
- Meal prep magic: This soup gets even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 8g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes minestrone soup healthy?
Minestrone soup is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from vegetables and beans. It’s hearty yet low in calories, making it a perfect meal for balanced nutrition.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely. You can brown ground turkey, sausage, or shredded chicken for extra protein without losing the Italian charm.
How do I keep the pasta from overcooking?
If you’re storing leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating the soup to maintain a perfect texture.
What’s the best olive oil for cooking minestrone?
Choose a high-smoke point and flavorful olive oil like Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which brings a mellow, golden note ideal for sautéing and simmering.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Warm Italian Joy
Minestrone soup is a humble yet luxurious bowl of Italian tradition. From the first sauté to the last sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a recipe that connects you to timeless flavor and healthful simplicity. When shared with family or enjoyed solo, it brings a touch of warmth and nourishment that feels like home. Grab your spoon, pour a drizzle of olive oil on top, and taste the love in every bite.