Crock Pot Minestrone Recipe 🍲
Description: Dive into the hearty flavors of this Crock Pot Minestrone, a comforting dish perfect for any day of the week. Loaded with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Serves: Adjusts according to your preference
Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 zucchini
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
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Preparation: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
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Assembly: In your crock pot, combine all the prepared ingredients except for the cooked rice. Pour in the low sodium beef broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans. Season the mixture with dried marjoram and black pepper.
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Cooking: Cover the crock pot with its lid. Set the cooking mode to low and let it simmer for 8 to 10 hours, or if you’re short on time, set it to high and cook for 4 to 5 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Final Touch: Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the cooked rice. This addition adds a delightful texture and makes the soup more filling. Ensure that everything is well combined.
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Serving: Ladle the piping hot Minestrone into bowls. Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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Enjoy: Dive into the comforting warmth of this delicious Crock Pot Minestrone. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor, making it a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Share the love by inviting friends and family to enjoy this delightful dish with you!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 241.2
- Fat: 1.4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 732.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 49.1g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 10.8g
- Protein: 10.7g
Tips:
- Variation: Feel free to customize this Minestrone according to your taste preferences. You can add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
- Serve with: Pair this Minestrone with a slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this Crock Pot Minestrone is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the simplicity and heartiness of this classic Italian soup, perfect for any occasion!
