Simple Minestrone Recipe

Overview:

This Simple Minestrone recipe is a cherished favorite from the early days of our marriage. It’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for budget-conscious cooks and those practicing Once a Month Cooking. Whether you’re serving it fresh or freezing it for later, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. Packed with wholesome ingredients like beans, vegetables, and a hint of aromatic herbs, it’s a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Plus, with its ability to be customized to suit various dietary preferences, including vegan and vegetarian options, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Yield: 1 big pot of soup

Ingredients:

• 3 cups water
• 2 cups chicken broth (can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegan/vegetarian version)
• 1 can (15 ounces) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups cabbage, shredded
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) Italian-style tomatoes, undrained
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 onions, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 zucchinis, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup spaghetti noodles (optional, omit if freezing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

   Related Articles

   • 
     🎅 Festive Snowman Poop Treats – Easy Holiday Gift Idea! 🎁
   • 
     Golden Ranch Eggs: Cheesy Tex-Mex Breakfast Delight
   • 
     Golden Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni: A Cheesy Italian Delight!
   • 
     Lemon Infused Olive Elixir
   • In a large pot, combine water, chicken broth, beans, cabbage, carrots, canned tomatoes, and celery.
   • Season with 2 teaspoons of salt.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

2. Prepare the Saute:

   • In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add diced onions to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
   • Stir in diced zucchini, tomato, and minced garlic.
   • Cover the pan and let the mixture cook on low heat for 20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their juices.

3. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot of beans and vegetables.
   • Stir in the chopped parsley.
   • If using spaghetti noodles, add them to the pot.
   • Cover the pot and let the soup simmer slowly for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

4. Optional: Skip the Pasta for Freezing:

   • If planning to freeze the soup, omit adding the spaghetti noodles. This will prevent them from becoming mushy when reheated.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot.
   • Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
   • Enjoy this comforting Simple Minestrone either fresh or frozen for later!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 325.7
• Fat: 7.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 513.2mg
• Carbohydrates: 52.9g
  • Fiber: 8.3g
  • Sugar: 8.8g
• Protein: 13.7g

Recipe Notes:

• This Simple Minestrone soup is perfect for batch cooking and freezing for later use. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers once cooled and store for up to 3 months.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of beans for variation.
• For a heartier meal, serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, this Simple Minestrone recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this budget-friendly and nutritious dish is a winner every time! 🍲