Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's also packed with nutrients? Look no further! This Lidia's Minestrone Soup recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a quick dinner idea or a cozy weekend lunch, this homemade cooking masterpiece is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's one of the best recipes for a flavorful and nutritious soup!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work well)
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the flavor: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the beans and pasta: Add the cannellini beans and pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
Incorporate the veggies: Stir in the green beans and zucchini. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Minestrone Perfection
- For a deeper flavor: Sauté the vegetables for a longer time to develop richer flavors.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Aim for tender-crisp vegetables to retain their texture and nutrients.
- Adjust the pasta: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less pasta. For a soupier consistency, add more broth.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or corn. Get creative with what's in season!
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Customize Your Bowl
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based and omit the Parmesan cheese for a vegan version. Nutritional yeast can be a great alternative for a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Minestrone: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Hearty Minestrone: Add cooked sausage or pancetta for a richer, meatier soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fiber: 8-10g
Enjoy this delicious and healthy Lidia's Minestrone Soup! It’s a perfect example of how easy recipes can be both tasty and nutritious. Let me know in the comments how you enjoyed your homemade bowl of goodness!