Green Minestrone Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, nourishing meal that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors, this Green Minestrone Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. It’s a delightful medley of garden-fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta simmered in a fragrant herb-infused broth. Every spoonful is brimming with wholesome goodness and just the right amount of seasoning to make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a filling dinner, this Green Minestrone Recipe hits all the right notes for a satisfying, soul-warming bowl of soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing its own unique texture, taste, and color to the Green Minestrone Recipe. From the tender vegetables that add freshness to the creamy cannellini beans providing heartiness, everything works together beautifully.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a rich, fruity base to sauté the veggies and build flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked down.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Brings aromatic earthiness and texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with savory warmth and a lovely fragrance.
• 1 small zucchini, diced: Adds tender, light green notes and a smooth texture.
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers bright color and a crisp bite.
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced: Provides a hearty, comforting body to the soup.
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy protein and makes the soup satisfying.
• 6 cups vegetable broth: The soul of the soup, creating a savory, flavorful base.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers subtle herbal notes that enhance every ingredient.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a gentle Mediterranean flair.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just a hint of warming spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens the soup’s flavors.
• 1 cup kale, chopped: Boosts the soup with earthy greens full of nutrients.
• 1 cup spinach, chopped: Adds freshness and a lovely vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup small pasta (such as elbow or ditalini): Brings a satisfying chew that turns this into a filling meal.
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle to add umami richness and a touch of indulgence.

How to Make Green Minestrone Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it softens and turns translucent, filling your kitchen with comforting aromas. This foundation sets the stage for all the layers of flavor to come.

Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery

Next, stir in the diced carrots and celery. Let them cook together with the onion for another 5 minutes, which softens the veggies slightly and blends their flavors beautifully. These vegetables form the classic base that makes the soup taste familiar and inviting.

Step 3: Garlic Goes In

Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic awakens the palate and elevates the soup’s taste with its warm, aromatic character.

Step 4: Incorporate Zucchini and Green Beans

Stir the diced zucchini and green beans into the pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes to let them soften just enough while retaining their bright green color and slight crunch. This step keeps the soup fresh and lively.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Broth

Throw in the diced potato and combine everything well. Then pour in the vegetable broth and bring it all to a boil. The potatoes add comforting substance, while the broth ties all ingredients together in a savory harmony.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables become tender but not mushy. This slow cooking melds the flavors gently, making the soup truly satisfying.

Step 7: Add Cannellini Beans and Seasonings

Stir in the drained cannellini beans alongside dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes so the beans soften further and the herbs infuse their wonderful, earthy notes into every spoonful.

Step 8: Fold in the Greens

Add chopped kale and spinach to the pot and stir until wilted and thoroughly combined. These greens not only enhance the nutritional profile but also contribute a lovely vibrant hue that makes the soup visually enticing.

Step 9: Cook the Pasta

Finally, stir in the small pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. The pasta turns this soup from a simple starter into a hearty, comforting main dish that warms you inside out.

Step 10: Adjust Seasoning and Finish

Taste and adjust the seasonings with additional salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the steaming hot Green Minestrone Recipe into bowls and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to add that irresistibly rich, savory finish that everyone loves.

How to Serve Green Minestrone Recipe

Garnishes

The Green Minestrone Recipe shines with simple garnishes that enhance its flavor and presentation. Fresh Parmesan cheese melts perfectly on top, while a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil can add a burst of color and freshness. A light drizzle of good olive oil right before serving also amplifies the richness and aroma.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of broth. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty soup wonderfully, balancing the richness with crispness and acidity. Roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter can round out the meal nicely if you want something more substantial.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Green Minestrone Recipe in rustic bowls for a cozy feel or clear glass mugs for a charming, modern twist. You can also portion it into small cups for a beautiful appetizer at a dinner party. Adding a parmesan crisp on the side adds texture and an element of surprise that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavors and vibrant colors. The hearty vegetables and beans hold up well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the Green Minestrone Recipe for up to 3 months. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy upon reheating, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it fresh when you reheat the soup. Freeze the soup base in portions for easy defrosting.

Reheating

Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Once hot, add freshly grated Parmesan before serving to regain that fresh-from-the-pot magic.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of kale and spinach?

Absolutely! Swiss chard, collard greens, or even mustard greens can be great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on their texture to ensure they wilt perfectly without overcooking.

Is this Green Minestrone Recipe suitable for vegans?

It definitely can be! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative, and you’ll have a delicious vegan-friendly soup that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor or heartiness.

What pasta works best in minestrone?

Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best because they cook evenly and fit nicely on a spoon along with the veggies and broth, creating a balanced bite every time.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the aromatics on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes to avoid it becoming mushy.

How can I make this soup more filling?

Adding extra beans, pasta, or even diced cooked chicken can boost the protein and starch content. Serving it with a side of bread or a salad also helps round out the meal for those with bigger appetites.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Green Minestrone Recipe. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, packed with vibrant greens, satisfying beans, and comforting pasta. Every step is simple, yet the result feels like a labor of love. I truly hope you try making this soup and share it with your loved ones because it’s a recipe that brings joy and nourishment to any table.

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