Minestrone Soup is the ultimate cozy, nourishing meal that brings together a bounty of vibrant vegetables, hearty beans, and tender pasta in a savory tomato broth. This classic Italian soup is not just easy to whip up, it’s also endlessly customizable, making it a go-to recipe for emptying the crisper or feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re savoring it on a chilly evening or prepping a make-ahead lunch, this Minestrone Soup promises big flavors and wholesome comfort in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Minestrone Soup works in perfect harmony to create layers of taste, texture, and color. Simple pantry staples and fresh produce come together in a medley that’s both rustic and visually appealing.

Olive oil: The base for sautéing, lending a subtle richness and helping the aromatics shine.
Onion: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the soup as it cooks down.
Garlic: Adds a signature Italian flavor and warmth to the broth.
Carrots: Offer gentle sweetness and color, plus a hearty bite.
Celery: Balances the sweetness of carrots and gives a classic aromatic base.
Zucchini: A soft, slightly creamy texture that naturally soaks up all the herby goodness.
Potato: Adds creaminess and makes the soup even more satisfying.
Diced tomatoes (canned): Build the backbone of the broth with a bright, tangy flavor.
Cannellini or kidney beans: Offer protein and heartiness; use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Green beans: Bring a pop of color and a nice tender-crisp texture.
Small pasta (like ditalini): Makes the Minestrone Soup wonderfully filling and fun to eat.
Vegetable broth: Ties all the ingredients together with a savory, comforting base.
Dried oregano: Adds depth and a distinctly Mediterranean note.
Dried basil: Lends sweet, fragrant herbal undertones.
Salt and pepper: Essential for lifting and balancing all the flavors in the soup.
Chopped spinach or kale: Stirred in at the end for vibrant color and a fresh, green boost.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Finishes each bowl with salty, nutty richness.

How to Make Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base Aromatics

Start your Minestrone Soup with a fragrant foundation: heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté everything together for about 5–6 minutes. This step is the secret to a deliciously rich soup, as it gently releases the natural sweetness and aromas of your vegetables, creating those unmistakable classic Italian flavors.

Step 2: Build the Vegetable Medley

Next, toss in your zucchini and diced potatoes. Give them a quick stir and let them cook for another 2 minutes. These veggies will add satisfying heartiness and subtle flavor, plus their different textures make every spoonful interesting.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Liquid

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), your rinsed cannellini or kidney beans, the green beans, pasta, and of course, the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, letting the aroma fill your kitchen, then reduce the heat so it simmers gently and the flavors start to meld together.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Let your Minestrone Soup simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. This is where the magic happens as the vegetables soften, the pasta cooks up beautifully, and every ingredient infuses the broth with flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the pasta’s texture.

Step 5: Add Greens and Finish

Just before serving, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes until the greens wilt and become vibrant. Taste and adjust your seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Serve Minestrone Soup

Garnishes

A steaming bowl of Minestrone Soup is even more inviting with a final flourish of garnishes. A classic sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds richness and umami, while a drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley can bring a lovely bright note. Cracked black pepper and even croutons or toasted bread cubes offer delectable texture.

Side Dishes

Minestrone Soup shines solo, but you can make it a true feast with the right sides. Serve it with crusty artisan bread, garlic bread, or warm focaccia for dunking. For a heartier meal, add a simple mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or a platter of marinated olives and roasted vegetables on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful with your presentation! Try serving Minestrone Soup in rustic mugs for a cozy, casual vibe, or spoon it into mini bowls as a starter for dinner parties. You can even ladle it over rice or cooked quinoa for a fun, nutrient-rich twist that soaks up every drop of flavorful broth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Minestrone Soup only gets better with time, as the flavors continue to mingle in the fridge! Transfer cooled leftovers to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The vegetables and beans will remain tender and satisfying, making weekday lunches a breeze.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Minestrone Soup, it’s best to do so before adding the pasta, which can become too soft after thawing. Ladle soup into freezer-safe containers (leave some room for expansion) and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat and add freshly cooked pasta before serving for the perfect texture every time.

Reheating

Gently reheat Minestrone Soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until piping hot. If the soup seems thick (the pasta can soak up broth overnight), just add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. It also reheats beautifully in the microwave for quick meals on the go.

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables in Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely! Minestrone Soup is incredibly flexible. Feel free to toss in whatever’s seasonal or waiting in your fridge, such as bell peppers, peas, cabbage, or butternut squash. Just adjust cooking times for harder or softer veggies.

Is Minestrone Soup gluten-free?

The classic version contains pasta, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or omitting the pasta entirely and adding more beans or even rice for an extra boost.

What’s the best way to add protein to Minestrone Soup?

Besides the beans, you can up the protein content by stirring in cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or even a scoop of cooked quinoa. For a vegetarian protein punch, double up on the beans or add some lentils.

Can I make Minestrone Soup in advance?

Definitely! It’s actually one of those magical dishes that tastes even better the next day. The soup stores well in the fridge for several days, and the flavors deepen over time.

How do I keep the pasta from getting too soft?

If you’re planning to store or freeze Minestrone Soup, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. That way, it maintains its texture and doesn’t soak up all the broth while sitting.

Final Thoughts

Gather your favorite veggies and let Minestrone Soup warm your table and your heart! Every batch brings the opportunity for new combinations and flavors, so don’t be shy about making it your own. Dive in, enjoy every colorful bite, and let this beloved Italian soup become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

Minestrone Soup Recipe