Minestrone Soup
Minestrone Soup: This classic Italian soup is a hearty combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 can kidney beans (14 oz), drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup small pasta (such as macaroni or ditalini) , Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional),
Instructions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots, celery, and zucchini and cook until slightly softened, about 5 minutes more.
Add the can of diced tomatoes and their juices, broth, kidney beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked about 10-12 minutes.
Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Optional: You can also add other vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes, green beans, or cabbage, depending on your preferences. You can also add cooked sausage, chicken, or bacon for a heartier soup.
