Crockett Minestrone Soup
A hearty, vegetable-rich minestrone soup with beans, pasta, and fresh herbs, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for vegetarians or anyone craving a flavorful, nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute celery, garlic, and parsley in 1/4 cup olive oil.
- Add refried beans and water to the pot.
- Stir in tomatoes, cabbage or other vegetables of choice, and 2 teaspoons beef bouillon.
- Cook the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of salad macaroni to the soup.
- Cook until the macaroni is tender.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar. If you're short on time, use canned beans instead of refried beans. You can also substitute the macaroni with any small pasta you prefer. Fresh herbs can be swapped with dried; just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated. This recipe can also be a great base for additional vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the minestrone soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Italian-Swiss Meat Loaf or a slice of Roman Pizza.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crockett Minestrone Soup contains roughly 533 calories, with 12g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (177% of the Daily Value), iron (141% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 717mg per serving (31% 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 soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the beef bouillon crystals with vegetable bouillon. This will keep the soup flavorful while maintaining a vegetarian profile. You can also add more vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for additional texture and nutrition.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while it cooks. You can also include diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers to elevate the flavor and give it a kick.
Can I freeze minestrone soup?
Yes, minestrone soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
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).