Minestrone

Italian Minestrone Recipe for 4 People

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 potato, peeled and diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (400g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Saute Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables:
   • Add diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and potato to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
3. Simmer Soup:
   • Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Add Beans and Pasta:
   • Stir in cannellini beans and small pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente, following package instructions.
5. Add Spinach and Seasonings:
   • Add fresh spinach leaves to the pot and let them wilt into the soup.
   • Season the minestrone with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning according to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the hot minestrone into bowls.
   • Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Optional:

• You can customize your minestrone by adding other vegetables such as peas, green beans, or cabbage.

Enjoy this hearty Italian Minestrone soup for 4 people!