There’s something so cozy about a bowl of classic vegetarian minestrone soup, especially on a chilly evening when the wind is howling outside. I remember one particularly brisk autumn night, I came home from a long day, feeling a bit frazzled. The moment I walked through the door, the comforting aroma of simmering veggies and herbs enveloped me like a warm hug. My family gathered around the kitchen table, and as I ladled the steaming soup into bowls, I could feel the love and warmth radiating from each spoonful. It’s hearty, packed with vibrant vegetables, and oh-so-satisfying! Every bite takes me back to those moments of togetherness, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing a meal. Trust me, this minestrone soup is not just a recipe; it’s a way to bring warmth into your home and heart.

Ingredients for Minestrone Soup Vegetarian Classic

Gather these simple, fresh ingredients to create a delicious pot of classic vegetarian minestrone soup:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup pasta (small shape like ditalini)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning

For serving, you can also consider adding:

1 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Feel free to mix and match with any veggies you have on hand; this soup is all about using what you love!

How to Prepare Minestrone Soup Vegetarian Classic

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful classic vegetarian minestrone soup! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You’ll want to give it a minute to warm up, and then toss in the 1 cup of chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. There’s something magical about that smell filling your kitchen!

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Next, it’s time to add in the rest of the veggies! Stir in 2 diced carrots, 1 cup of diced celery, 1 diced zucchini, and 1 cup of chopped green beans. Cook these beauties for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they get evenly coated in that glorious olive oil and start to soften. You’ll see the colors brighten up, and trust me, it’s a feast for the eyes!

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now, let’s bring it all together. Stir in the 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 cup of pasta (I recommend a small shape like ditalini), and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. This is where the soup transforms! Bring the mixture to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once it’s bubbling, you know you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This is the perfect time to let those flavors meld together beautifully! Stir occasionally, and don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You want that balance of flavors to be just right!

Step 5: Serve the Soup

Once the pasta is cooked and the soup is fragrant, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy it hot, and watch as everyone gathers around, ready to dig in. Each spoonful is a warm hug on a chilly day!

Nutritional Information for Minestrone Soup Vegetarian Classic

While this classic vegetarian minestrone soup is as nourishing as it is delicious, keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. On average, each serving contains around 210 calories, 30g of carbohydrates, 8g of protein, and 6g of fat. It’s packed with fiber (about 7g per serving) thanks to all those vibrant vegetables! This soup is a wholesome option that’s sure to warm you up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in about 45 minutes!
Healthiness: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this soup is loaded with nutrients and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Versatility: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand—this recipe is all about using what you love!
Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory broth and fresh ingredients creates a warm, satisfying dish perfect for chilly nights.

Tips for Success

To truly make your classic vegetarian minestrone soup shine, here are some helpful tips that I’ve gathered through my own kitchen adventures:

Mix Up the Veggies: Don’t feel restricted by the ingredient list! Feel free to toss in any vegetables you have on hand, like spinach, kale, or even some bell peppers. The more colors, the better!
Herb It Up: If you want to elevate the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving. It adds a burst of freshness that’s to die for!
Perfect Pasta: To prevent the pasta from getting mushy, cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving, especially if you plan to store leftovers.
Batch It: This soup freezes beautifully! Make a big batch and store some for a quick meal later. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to making a minestrone soup that warms both the belly and the soul!

Common Questions About Minestrone Soup Vegetarian Classic

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! One of the best parts of making this classic vegetarian minestrone soup is its versatility. You can easily swap in any vegetables you have on hand. Think leafy greens like kale or spinach, or maybe some sweet corn or diced bell peppers. Each combination brings its own unique flavor and texture to the soup, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your veggie choices!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super simple! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until it’s heated through. Just a little stir and it’ll be as good as new!

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, indeed! This minestrone soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Once it’s cooled, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a comforting bowl, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or microwave. Easy peasy!

Serving Suggestions for Minestrone Soup Vegetarian Classic

This classic vegetarian minestrone soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your meal even further! Consider serving it with a warm, crusty baguette or some homemade garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that savory broth. A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightness to your dinner. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of cheesy focaccia is simply divine alongside the soup. Trust me, these pairings will make your meal feel extra special!

For more delicious soup recipes, check out this vegetable soup with chicken meatballs or this winter minestrone soup. If you’re interested in the health benefits of vegetables, you can read more here.

Classic Vegetarian Minestrone Soup

This classic vegetarian minestrone soup is hearty and packed with vegetables. It’s a perfect comfort food that’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Dinner, Soup

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 bowls

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 zucchini diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup pasta small shape like ditalini
1 tbsp Italian seasoning

For Serving

1 cup parmesan cheese, grated optional

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, pasta, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the pasta is cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

You can add any vegetables you have on hand. This soup freezes well, so make a big batch.

Keyword classic, minestrone soup, Vegetarian

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