Satisfying Vegetarian Minestrone

Satisfying Vegetarian Minestrone Recipe from Italy | Ingredients: vegetable broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, tomatoes, savoy, red kidney beans, cannellini, basil, salt

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Minestrone is a classic Italian soup that is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. This vegetarian version is packed with vegetables, beans, and flavorful broth, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day.

History

Minestrone has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. It originated as a way to use up leftover vegetables and beans, making it a thrifty and delicious dish. Over time, different regions of Italy have put their own spin on the recipe, resulting in countless variations of this comforting soup.

Ingredients

6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
3 stalks celery, diced
2 large all-purpose potatoes, peeled and diced (3 cups)
14.5 oz (411 g) can low-sodium diced tomatoes
0.5 medium head savoy or green cabbage, cut into large dice (4 cups)
0.5 cup cooked or canned rinsed red kidney beans
0.5 cup cooked or canned rinsed cannellini (white kidney) beans
0.5 tsp dried basil
0.25 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a large pot, combine all the ingredients.
Mix them well.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes.
Serve the dish hot.

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or beans. You can also add pasta or rice for a heartier version of minestrone.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to dice your vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or beans.

- For a richer flavor, you can sauté the vegetables in olive oil before adding the broth.

- Don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vegetarian minestrone with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any combination of vegetables in this recipe, depending on what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the beans for chickpeas or lentils if you prefer.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of minestrone with a sprig of fresh basil or a dollop of pesto for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This vegetarian minestrone pairs well with a light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Chianti. You can also serve it with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this vegetarian minestrone contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

This vegetarian minestrone is a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with only a small amount coming from the beans and any added olive oil. Each serving contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Beans are a great source of plant-based protein, making this vegetarian minestrone a satisfying and filling meal. Each serving contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables included. You'll get a healthy dose of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber with each serving.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens like dairy, eggs, and nuts. However, if you have a gluten allergy, be sure to use gluten-free beans and broth.

Summary

Overall, this vegetarian minestrone is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a healthy and delicious option for lunch or dinner.

Summary

This vegetarian minestrone is a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with vegetables, beans, and flavorful broth, it's a satisfying dish that will warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy a bowl on a chilly day for a taste of Italy in your own kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Satisfying Vegetarian Minestrone. It was a crisp autumn day, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of red and gold. I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known for her delicious homemade soups. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering vegetables and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, then led me to the stove where a large pot of bubbling soup sat. "I've been experimenting with a new recipe for Vegetarian Minestrone," she said excitedly. "I think you're going to love it."

As she ladled a steaming bowlful for me, I couldn't help but admire the vibrant colors and enticing aroma of the soup. Each spoonful was a delight to my taste buds, with the perfect balance of savory vegetables, hearty beans, and fragrant herbs. I savored every bite, feeling completely satisfied and nourished by the wholesome ingredients.

After finishing my bowl, I begged Martha for the recipe. She laughed and handed me a well-worn notebook filled with handwritten recipes. "I've been collecting these for years," she said. "Each one has a story behind it, just like this one."

I flipped through the pages, marveling at the variety of dishes Martha had compiled. There were recipes from her grandmother, passed down through generations, as well as recipes from friends and neighbors she had met over the years. Each one was a treasure trove of culinary wisdom, waiting to be explored and shared.

As I copied down the recipe for Satisfying Vegetarian Minestrone, Martha shared the story behind it. She had first tasted this soup at a small Italian restaurant in her hometown, where the chef had graciously shared the secret to its rich flavor and hearty texture. Martha had adapted the recipe over the years, adding her own twist with seasonal vegetables and herbs from her garden.

Inspired by Martha's passion for cooking and sharing recipes, I vowed to make Vegetarian Minestrone a regular dish in my own kitchen. I gathered the ingredients – fresh tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, celery, beans, and a medley of herbs – and set to work chopping and sautéing, just as Martha had taught me.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling my home with its irresistible aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned a new recipe from a dear friend, one that would nourish both body and soul with its wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors.

When the soup was ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished each one with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. As I sat down to enjoy a steaming bowlful, I closed my eyes and savored the familiar taste of Martha's Vegetarian Minestrone, now a cherished recipe in my own collection.

From that day on, whenever I made Vegetarian Minestrone, I thought of Martha and the special bond we shared over our love for good food and heartfelt conversations. The recipe had become more than just a dish – it was a reminder of the joy and warmth that comes from sharing meals with loved ones, and the power of a simple bowl of soup to bring comfort and happiness to those who savor it.

As I continue to cook and share recipes with my friends and family, I carry Martha's legacy with me, knowing that each dish has a story to tell and a memory to cherish. And whenever I make Vegetarian Minestrone, I am transported back to that autumn day in Martha's kitchen, where a simple bowl of soup became a source of inspiration and connection, filling our hearts with warmth and joy.