Hearty Minestrone Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This minestrone soup is a meal in itself — hearty, nourishing, and easy to prepare. It uses simple, affordable ingredients and is perfect for using up leftover veggies. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian dinner or something to warm you up on a cold day, this soup is incredibly comforting, customizable, and delicious.

Ingredients

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

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Carrots
• Celery
• Garlic
• Zucchini
• Green beans
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Vegetable broth
• Canned kidney beans
• Canned cannellini beans
• Pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• Spinach or kale
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Bay leaf
• Fresh parsley or Parmesan for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add zucchini, green beans, and both types of beans. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until al dente.
7. Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking, just until wilted.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.
9. Ladle into bowls and top with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 hearty servings and takes approximately 45 minutes total — 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking.

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta and add cooked rice or quinoa instead.
• Low-carb: Omit pasta and add more beans or extra vegetables.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño.
• Protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken or sausage for a meat-based version.
• Creamy version: Add a splash of cream or dairy-free milk toward the end for a smoother texture.
• Seasonal vegetables: Use whatever veggies are in season, such as sweet potatoes, squash, or peas.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes.

This soup also freezes well. For best results, freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when serving. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, though fresh vegetables provide better texture. If using canned, add them later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

Is Minestrone Soup vegetarian?

Yes, this version is vegetarian. Just be sure to use vegetable broth and check labels on canned goods.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely. Skip any cheese topping and use vegan broth to keep it fully plant-based.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving, especially if you plan to store leftovers.

What kind of beans work best in minestrone?

Kidney and cannellini beans are traditional, but you can use black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas as well.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients (except pasta and spinach) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.

What can I serve with minestrone soup?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad are great sides.

How do I thicken the soup?

Mash some of the beans or simmer uncovered a little longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables like green beans, corn, or spinach can be added directly and work well.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild, colorful, and full of familiar flavors — plus you can sneak in extra veggies.

Conclusion

Hearty Minestrone Soup is a classic that never goes out of style. Loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s a balanced, warming, and satisfying meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re making a big batch for meal prep or serving it fresh for dinner, this soup is sure to please the whole family.