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To make the best traditional minestrone soup, you need simple ingredients. Start with fresh vegetables. Onions, carrots, and celery form a good base. Zucchini and green beans add color and texture. Use a can of diced tomatoes for flavor and acidity.

Minestrone Soup

Warm up with a bowl of hearty minestrone soup, the ultimate comfort food! Packed with fresh veggies, protein-rich beans, and hearty pasta, this simple recipe is perfect for any home cook. Discover the essential ingredients and cooking tips that make this classic dish a family favorite. Whether you're meal prepping or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, click through to explore how to create your own delicious minestrone soup today!

Ingredients
  

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup green beans, chopped

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup cooked kidney beans (or canned, drained and rinsed)

1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

    Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until slightly softened.

        Mix in the zucchini and green beans, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.

          Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.

            Add the kidney beans, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

              Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender.

                Add the small pasta to the soup and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.

                  In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt into the soup.

                    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8