Minestrone Vegetable Soup
A hearty and comforting vegetable minestrone soup packed with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Featuring tomatoes, beans, pasta, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is perfect for a nutritious meal that appeals to all ages and is ideal for cozy family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, sauté onions and celery until soft.
- Stir in chicken broth and tomato sauce; bring to a boil.
- Add frozen vegetables, shell macaroni, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
- Add red kidney beans and simmer for 5 minutes longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced zucchini or spinach, which pair well with the existing ingredients. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also replace shell macaroni with any small pasta you have on hand. Adjust the garlic powder to taste for a stronger flavor, and a dash of Italian seasoning can add depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this minestrone soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a dish like Savory Italian Rice Bake or Pasta With Vegetables And Goat Cheese to enhance the Italian theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well; let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minestrone Vegetable Soup contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can enhance the flavor and texture of your soup. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they become tender without losing their crunch.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this minestrone soup is excellent for meal prep! It stores well and the flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge, making it a great option for easy weeknight dinners.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including a pinch of red pepper flakes or dicing a jalapeño along with the onions and celery. This will give the soup a pleasant kick without overpowering the other flavors.
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).