Save to Pinterest A festive, hearty Italian soup loaded with colorful vegetables, beans, and pasta—perfect for a holiday gathering or cozy winter meal.
This minestrone has been my go-to holiday soup for years it brings everyone to the table with its rich flavors and comforting warmth
Ingredients
- Fresh Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion diced, 2 carrots peeled and diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 zucchini diced, 1 cup green beans trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces, 2 cups baby spinach roughly chopped
- Aromatics & Seasonings: 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Canned Goods & Liquids: 1 (14 oz/400 g) can diced tomatoes, 6 cups vegetable broth, 1 (15 oz/425 g) can cannellini beans drained and rinsed, 1 (15 oz/425 g) can red kidney beans drained and rinsed
- Pasta: 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
- Garnishes: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional omit for vegan), 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add onion carrots celery and bell pepper Sauté for 5 6 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic oregano basil thyme and red pepper flakes Cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Step 3:
- Add zucchini and green beans cook for an additional 3 minutes
- Step 4:
- Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth Bring to a boil
- Step 5:
- Stir in cannellini beans kidney beans and pasta Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12 15 minutes or until pasta and vegetables are tender
- Step 6:
- Add baby spinach and cook for 2 3 minutes until wilted Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Step 7:
- Ladle the minestrone into bowls Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings my family together especially on chilly winter nights it fills the house with warmth and delicious aromas
Notes
Add a Parmesan rind to the pot while simmering for extra flavor removing before serving contains dairy
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of Chianti
Additional Tips
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs and always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Save to Pinterest This minestrone is the perfect warm hug in a bowl ideal for sharing with loved ones
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta in this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well and maintains the dish's texture and flavor.
- → How can I make this soup vegan-friendly?
Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan.
- → What are good vegetable substitutes for the winter season?
Consider adding butternut squash, sweet potatoes, or peas for seasonal variety.
- → How long should the pasta cook in the soup?
Simmer the pasta with beans and vegetables for 12–15 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, the flavors deepen if made ahead. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Oregano, basil, thyme, and optional crushed red pepper flakes create a well-rounded aromatic profile.