- Sauté Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Stir in chicken broth, Veg-All, kidney beans, chopped tomatoes, frozen spinach, and tomato paste. Mix until well combined.
- Season: Add black pepper, dried basil, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Pasta and Garbanzo Beans: Stir in uncooked pasta and garbanzo beans. Continue to simmer for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and richness.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan or parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Serving and Storage
Serve Minestrone Soup hot, paired with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad. It makes a perfect meal for lunch or dinner.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips
- Use freshly chopped vegetables if available for a fresher taste and texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
- Cook pasta separately if you plan to store or freeze the soup to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For extra richness, add a splash of olive oil or a spoonful of cream before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavor.
Conclusion
Hearty Minestrone Soup is a versatile, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for the whole family. Packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, it offers a nutritious and satisfying meal. Easy to make and adaptable, it’s a go-to recipe for cozy dinners or batch cooking.
FAQ
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit any meat-based ingredients.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, add fresh chopped spinach during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking until wilted.
Can I use different pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like macaroni, ditalini, or shells work well.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, freeze without the Parmesan cheese to maintain texture. Add cheese after reheating.
How thick should the soup be?
Minestrone is typically a hearty, slightly brothy soup. Add more broth or water if it’s too thick.