Name: Homemade Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 medium bell pepper, diced; 400 g canned diced tomatoes; 1 L vegetable broth; 200 g green beans, trimmed and cut; 150 g small-shell or penne pasta; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, to garnish; Grated Parmesan (optional), to serve

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A hearty and comforting Italian-style vegetable soup brimming with fresh produce, tender pasta, and aromatic herbs—perfect for cozy nights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh, wholesome ingredients with no added preservatives.
Versatile—easily customize with seasonal veggies or pantry staples.
Comforting yet light, ideal for any meal or a nourishing lunch.
Crowd-pleaser—satisfying even with simple, clean flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 medium bell pepper, diced
400 g canned diced tomatoes
1 L vegetable broth
200 g green beans, cut into pieces
150 g small-shell or penne pasta
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, to garnish
Parmesan cheese (optional), to serve

Directions

Prep: Wash and chop all vegetables—onion, carrots, celery, garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper.
Sauté base: In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté ~5 minutes until softened.
Build flavor: Add garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Sauté ~3 minutes until fragrant.
Liquid and seasoning: Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add green beans, oregano, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Add pasta: Stir in pasta and cook ~10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
Finish & serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Simmer a few extra minutes to meld flavors. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 bowls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans (like cannellini or kidney) for extra heft.
Green upgrade: Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes for extra nutrients.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or swap pasta for rice or quinoa.
Seasonal swaps: Substitute zucchini/bell pepper with seasonal veggies like squash, corn, or peas.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water or broth if too thick. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables?

Yes—squash, spinach, peas, corn, or potatoes are great swaps. Just adjust cooking times.

2. Is it okay to omit pasta?

Absolutely—you can make it pasta-free or use low-carb options like spiralized zucchini.

3. Can I make it vegan?

Yes—skip the Parmesan garnish and ensure your broth is vegan.

4. What’s the best pasta shape?

Small shapes like shells, penne, ditalini, or elbows work best for a balanced bite.

5. How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?

Cook to al dente, then remove from heat promptly. If reheating later, add broth to compensate.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes—sauté onions, carrots, and celery first, then transfer to slow cooker with remaining ingredients. Add pasta last 30 minutes.

7. How do I keep the soup from tasting watery?

Simmer uncovered briefly after cooking pasta to concentrate flavors.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—double ingredients and use a larger pot. Increase broth slightly if needed.

9. Why does it need canned tomatoes?

They add acidity, consistency, and depth of flavor—even out fresh ingredients.

10. Can I add fresh herbs?

Definitely—stir in chopped parsley, basil, or thyme just before serving for brightness.

Conclusion

This Homemade Minestrone Soup is a colorful, nourishing, and easy-to-make meal that brings comforting flavors and hearty nutrition together in one pot. With endless ways to tweak it seasonally or make it gluten-free or vegan, it’s a go-to recipe that warms both body and soul. Enjoy every wholesome spoonful!

Ezabella