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Italian minestrone soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that showcases the flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs. Preparing it from scratch allows you to enjoy a wholesome meal full of vibrant tastes and textures. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make a classic Italian minestrone using fresh ingredients.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for garnish
Preparation Steps
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the diced zucchini and green beans, cooking for a few more minutes to enhance their flavors.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the cannellini beans, dried oregano, and small pasta to the soup. Continue simmering until the pasta is cooked al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving and Garnishing
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
This classic Italian minestrone is versatile and can be customized with seasonal vegetables or additional herbs. Enjoy the fresh, wholesome flavors of Italy right in your kitchen!