This Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out. Packed with vibrant vegetables and legumes, this soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Not only is it healthy and nutritious, but its rich flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: This soup is loaded with healthy veggies and legumes, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks to master.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or beans, making it adaptable to your tastes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a deep flavor profile that brings warmth to any meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process and ensure optimal results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
- Blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking large quantities of soup without spills.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
Ingredients
This Italian Minestrone Soup is the definition of comfort food. Its a one pot soup packed with nutrients, veggies and legumes, not to mention super delicious!
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery sticks, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, diced
- 2 bay leaves
Broth & Legumes
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 potato, diced into cubes
- 4 cups vegetable broth – I’ve used low sodium
- ½ cup dried lentils or 1 can cooked lentils
- 1 can (15oz / 400g) cannellini beans or preferred beans
Pasta & Greens
- 1 cup (4.5oz / 125g) small pasta – I’ve used farfalline pastina
- 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional – parmesan cheese rind (omit for vegan recipe)
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Black pepper and/or red pepper flakes
- Grated parmesan cheese or pecorino
- Crusty bread
How to Make Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, add the olive oil, onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Add a good pinch of salt and sauté together for 5 minutes over medium heat until the onions are translucent and vegetables are starting to soften.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Add the garlic cloves and tomato paste to the pot. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes until fragrant and the tomato paste turns a deep dark red color.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Lentils
Pour in the vegetable broth, add the potato, optional parmesan rind, 2 cups of water, and dried lentils if using. Season well with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to low-medium. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Beans
If using canned lentils, add them along with the canned beans now. Continue simmering with the lid on for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
(Optional) Remove about 2 cups of soup from the pot. Transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth.
Step 6: Cook Pasta
Pour the blended puree back into the pot if blended. Add the pasta; allow it to cook according to package instructions (usually around 7 minutes). Taste for seasoning along the way; if needed, add more water for desired consistency.
Step 7: Add Spinach
When pasta is almost al dente, stir in the spinach. Cook for another few minutes until wilted.
Step 8: Serve
Remove bay leaves and parmesan rind from the soup before serving. Dish up bowls of your delicious Italian Minestrone Soup with an optional drizzle of olive oil, grated cheese if desired, black pepper, and enjoy!
How to Serve Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
Serving Italian Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience, as its rich flavors and vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes and palate. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish that will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the soup’s richness and provides a lovely finish.
Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Rustic Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A great way to soak up all the delicious broth!
Topped with Cheese
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino: For those who enjoy cheese, adding a sprinkle on top adds creaminess and depth to each bowl.
With a Side Salad
- Simple Green Salad: A light side salad pairs well, balancing the hearty soup with fresh greens and vinaigrette.
In Individual Bowls
- Personalized Bowls: Serving in individual bowls not only looks appealing but also allows guests to customize their toppings.
How to Perfect Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
Perfecting your Italian Minestrone Soup can take it from good to great! Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only improve flavor but also increase nutritional value. Choose seasonal produce for the best results.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and pepper gradually to achieve the desired flavor profile without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients.
Blend for Creaminess: Consider blending part of the soup for a creamier texture. This can make the broth more velvety while keeping some chunks intact for variety.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Al dente pasta contributes to a better overall texture in your soup.
Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans, such as kidney or black beans, to discover new flavors that complement your minestrone.
Allow Flavors to Meld: If time permits, let your soup sit after cooking. Allowing it to rest lets flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing overall taste.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
Pairing side dishes with your Italian Minestrone Soup can transform your meal into a complete dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the broth, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a bright contrast to the hearty soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring depth and additional nutrients, making them an excellent companion dish.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides protein and pairs wonderfully without overshadowing the soup’s flavor.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains, beans, or veggies complement the minestrone well and add visual appeal to your table.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the soup’s texture.
Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with hot soup.
Simple Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly can cleanse the palate between bites of rich minestrone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfecting the dish.
- Bold Ingredients: Not measuring ingredients correctly can lead to an imbalanced flavor. Always use precise measurements for best results.
- Bold Overcooking Veggies: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on your timing to ensure they remain tender yet firm.
- Bold Skipping Fresh Herbs: Forgetting fresh herbs can reduce the soup’s flavor. Always add them just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Bold Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
- Bold Not Using Broth: Using water instead of vegetable broth dilutes flavors. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth for rich taste without excess salt.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- It lasts up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It keeps well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup).
Can I make Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
What vegetables work best in this soup?
You can use any seasonal vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Is Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) vegan-friendly?
Yes, simply omit any cheese rinds or toppings that contain dairy, and you have a delicious vegan option!
How do I make my soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, blend a portion and stir it back in. You can also add more lentils or beans.
Final Thoughts
Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this hearty dish any time of year!
Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)
Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings warmth and nourishment to your table. This one-pot wonder is brimming with fresh vegetables, legumes, and aromatic herbs, making it not only a delicious meal but also a wholesome choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this soup is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, ensuring every bowl is just the way you like it. Perfect for meal prep, this minestrone can be made ahead and stored for busy days, providing comfort whenever you need it.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery sticks
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 potato
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup lentils or 1 can cooked lentils
- 1 can cannellini beans
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., farfalline pastina)
- 3 cups spinach
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add diced potato along with lentils (if using dried). Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- If using canned lentils, add them along with the cannellini beans during the last five minutes of cooking.
- Optional: Blend part of the soup for creaminess then stir back into the pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- In the final minutes of cooking, add chopped spinach until wilted.
- Serve warm with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg