Classic Homemade Minestrone Soup – A Wholesome, Plant-Based Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of mom’s homemade minestrone soup. This classic recipe has been passed down for 80 years, bringing together simple, nourishing ingredients that make for a hearty meal. Loaded with fresh vegetables, cannellini beans, and whole grain pasta, this minestrone soup is perfect for a cozy, budget-friendly dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.

Why Make Minestrone Soup?

Minestrone soup is a wonderful way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and legumes into one delicious dish. With ingredients like spinach, carrots, zucchini, and beans, this soup is a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein. It’s low in fat, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, nutritious meal.

Ingredients

To make this comforting minestrone soup, you’ll need:

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 can chopped tomatoes

• 1 cup celery, cut into 1/2-inch slices

• 4 cups vegetable broth (plus 1 can of water for extra liquid)

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1 can cannellini beans, drained (optional for added protein)

• 1 cup carrots, chopped

• 2 cups zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch half-moons

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 2 cups spinach (or any other leafy greens)

• 2 cups whole grain pasta, cooked separately

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large stockpot, add a bit of vegetable broth and sauté the onions, celery, garlic, carrots, and oregano over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Add the Main Ingredients: Stir in the canned tomatoes, additional broth, water, cannellini beans, and zucchini. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Finish with Spinach and Pasta: Add the spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until it’s just wilted. Remove the soup from heat and serve it over cooked whole grain pasta for a hearty meal.

4. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup over a serving of pasta in each bowl. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor, if desired.

Customizing Your Minestrone Soup

This classic minestrone recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences:

• Try different greens: Swap out the spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens.

• Add more veggies: For extra heartiness, add diced potatoes, green beans, or bell peppers.

• Adjust the flavor: Add Italian seasoning, a bay leaf, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

This homemade minestrone soup is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its simple ingredients and delicious, nourishing flavors, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, plant-based meal. Give this timeless recipe a try and enjoy a taste of home in every bowl!