Cozy Vegetable Minestrone Soup

Cozy Vegetable Minestrone Soup

This Minestrone Soup is exactly what you need on a cold day: warm, comforting, and full of delicious vegetables, pasta, and beans. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on your own.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbows)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup spinach (or kale, if you prefer)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
• Crusty bread, for serving

Directions:

1. Cook the Veggies
   Heat the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Add Zucchini and Garlic
   Stir in the zucchini and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
   Now, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors combine.
4. Cook the Pasta
   While the soup is simmering, cook your pasta in another pot according to the package directions. Drain it and set it aside.
5. Season the Soup
   Add the oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the soup. Stir it well. Then, add the cooked pasta and spinach (or kale). Let it cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the spinach has wilted.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
7. Enjoy
   That’s it! You’ve got yourself a delicious, cozy bowl of soup. Perfect for any day!

Tips:

• Switch it up: You can add other veggies like green beans, peas, or even potatoes if you prefer.
• Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

This Minestrone Soup is easy, filling, and so comforting—just what you need on a chilly evening.