why make this recipe
Winter Minestrone Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up during chilly days. This hearty soup is packed with fresh vegetables and beans, providing nutrition and comfort in every bowl. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize with whatever veggies are in season, making it a great choice for any winter meal.
how to make Winter Minestrone Soup
Making Winter Minestrone Soup is simple and straightforward. You start by sautéing some aromatic vegetables to build flavor. Then, you add in the rest of the ingredients and let everything simmer until tender. The result is a delicious and filling soup that is ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions :
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, zucchini, and green beans; cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Winter Minestrone Soup
Serve Winter Minestrone Soup hot in bowls. You can offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want to add some extra flavor. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
how to store Winter Minestrone Soup
To store the soup, let it cool to room temperature first. Then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
tips to make Winter Minestrone Soup
- Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or potatoes work great in this soup.
- If you like your soup thicker, you can blend a portion of it after it cooks and stir it back in.
- For added protein, consider including other beans or even cooked pasta in the soup.
variation
You can add different herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh twist. Using chicken broth instead of vegetable broth adds more flavor. Additionally, you can make a spicy version by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
FAQs
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they are tender.
Is it okay to make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, and it reheats well. Just store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can add cooked sausage or chicken for extra protein and flavor. Just add it along with the vegetables at the beginning.
Winter Minestrone Soup
Ingredients
Aromatic Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, zucchini, and green beans; cook for another 3 minutes.
Cooking
- Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.