A Chunk Of Minestrone
A hearty and flavorful vegetable and meat minestrone packed with fresh vegetables, beans, pasta, and savory broth, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion with ground sirloin in a large pot.
- Add tomato juice, tomato sauce, carrots, celery stalks, basil, salt, pepper, and water. Cover and cook for 45 minutes.
- Add shredded cabbage and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Stir in rice and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add rosamarina macaroni and cook for 15 minutes.
- Finally, add chili powder, red beans or kidney beans with their juice, and simmer for a few minutes. Add more water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier minestrone, consider adding diced zucchini or kale. You can substitute ground sirloin with turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, use crushed red pepper flakes instead of chili powder. Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of water based on your preference for soup consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the minestrone hot, garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Sicilian-Style Pizza or crusty garlic bread. A simple side salad drizzled with Italian Creamy Dressing can complement the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover minestrone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened. It can also be reheated in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of A Chunk Of Minestrone contains roughly 21 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this minestrone vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this minestrone vegan by omitting the ground sirloin and using vegetable broth instead of water. Substitute the tomato juice and sauce for homemade versions made with fresh tomatoes for an even healthier dish.
What types of beans can I use in this recipe?
While red beans are specified, you can use any canned beans such as kidney beans, cannellini, or chickpeas. Just ensure they are drained and rinsed before adding them to the soup to reduce sodium content.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the minestrone to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).