Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Minestrone Soup is a hearty, wholesome Italian favorite packed with vegetables, beans, pasta, and a savory tomato-based broth. It’s a nourishing and flexible dish that’s easy to customize with seasonal produce. Perfect as a light main or satisfying starter, this comforting soup delivers bold flavor and rustic charm in every spoonful.

ingredients

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

oniongarliccarrotsceleryzucchinipotatoesgreen beansdiced tomatoes (canned or fresh)vegetable brothcannellini beans or kidney beanssmall pasta (like ditalini or elbow)olive oilbay leafdried oreganofresh or dried basilsaltblack pepperparmesan cheese (optional for serving)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.

Stir in diced zucchini, potatoes, and green beans; cook for a few minutes.

Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Stir in drained beans and pasta; cook for another 8-10 minutes until pasta is tender.

Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCook time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use spinach or kale for added greens.

Swap in chickpeas or lentils instead of traditional beans.

Use gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

Add a parmesan rind during cooking for deeper flavor.

Include pancetta or sausage for a heartier twist.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.Add a splash of broth or water when reheating if pasta has absorbed too much liquid.

FAQs

Is minestrone vegetarian?

Yes, this version is vegetarian; just skip the Parmesan for a vegan option.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely—just adjust cooking time as needed.

What pasta shape works best?

Small pasta like ditalini, elbow, or shells are ideal.

How can I make it more filling?

Add more beans or serve with crusty bread.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it reheats well—cook pasta separately if storing long-term.

Can I use chicken broth?

Yes, if not keeping it vegetarian.

Is this soup spicy?

Not traditionally, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Do I have to peel the tomatoes?

No, canned or fresh chopped tomatoes with skin work fine.

Can I skip the beans?

Yes, or swap for lentils or another protein source.

Will the pasta get mushy?

Yes, if stored too long in the soup—cook separately if needed.

Conclusion

Classic Minestrone Soup is a delicious, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable recipe that captures the heart of Italian comfort cooking. With its medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s a complete meal in a bowl that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Warm, filling, and full of flavor—minestrone is always a good idea.