Italian Minestrone Soup – Recipe and Preparation Instructions

Italian Minestrone Soup – Recipe and Preparation Instructions

Italian minestrone soup is a classic dish from the distinctive Italian cuisine, primarily relying on vegetables for its rich texture and flavor.

This soup is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for individuals managing their weight. It is also rich in vitamins that boost the immune system, as well as minerals and fibers that promote digestive health.


Ingredients for Italian Minestrone Soup (Serves 5):

Italian Minestrone Soup

 

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 200 grams minced sausage
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup fresh green beans, halved
  • 400 grams peeled and diced tomatoes
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 2 potatoes, diced
  • 1½ cups chopped spinach
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup chopped parsley
  • Parmesan cheese (to taste)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 cup pasta (small shapes, like elbow or shells)

For Serving:

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Italian seasoning (optional)

Preparation Steps:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add butter and let it melt. Sauté the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the ingredients are softened and aromatic.
  2. Add the Vegetables and Protein:

    • Lower the heat and add the zucchini, green beans, potatoes, spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, parsley, chickpeas, and sausage to the pot. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients.
  3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:

    • Pour in the chicken broth to fully cover the ingredients. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and cover the pot.
  4. Simmer the Soup:

    • Let the soup simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to cook through.
  5. Cook the Pasta:

    • Add the pasta to the pot and let it cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Serve and Garnish:

    • Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning if desired, and serve hot.

This hearty and nutritious Italian minestrone soup is perfect for a cozy family meal. Enjoy its rich blend of flavors and health benefits with every spoonful! Bon appétit!

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