Minestrone

Hearty Vegetable and Pasta Soup – A Culinary Embrace on a Plate

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the delicious world of hearty soup! This recipe perfectly combines the rich flavors of fresh vegetables with the pleasant textures of pasta, creating a comforting and nutritious meal. The soup you are about to prepare is not just a simple recipe, but a true culinary experience, inspired by traditions that have been passed down through generations. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

- 1 liter of vegetable broth or water + concentrate
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 large onion
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- ½ leek
- ¼ celery
- 100 g pasta (preferably short pasta, such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 small can of white beans (about 400 g)
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil and parsley or lovage for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Pasta:
Start by boiling the pasta. Put water in a large pot, add a teaspoon of salt and a drop of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the pasta and boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Preparing the Vegetables:
While the pasta is boiling, clean and wash the vegetables. Slice the carrots into thin rounds, dice the onion, chop the tomatoes, slice the leek into thin strips, and cube the celery. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also a palette of colors that will make the soup look appetizing.

3. Cooking the Soup:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable broth (or water with concentrate). Add the carrots, onion, tomatoes, leek, celery, and thyme. Let it simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and release their flavors, creating a delicious base for your soup.

4. Adding the Pasta and Beans:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the drained and rinsed beans and the cooked pasta. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let everything cook together for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

5. Final Seasoning:
Before turning off the heat, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add the fresh basil and parsley or lovage for an extra touch of freshness. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to stabilize.

Chef’s Tip

If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add bell peppers or diced potatoes, or even fresh peas. This will not only make the soup heartier but will also add varied textures. Additionally, if you prefer an even more nourishing soup, you can include some slices of sausage or bacon for a smoky taste.

Serving

Serve the soup hot, garnished with a few fresh basil and parsley leaves. You can accompany the soup with a slice of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious flavors. For a more sophisticated touch, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top will work wonders.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Fresh vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while beans offer protein and fiber, essential for a healthy diet. The pasta adds complex carbohydrates, giving you the energy needed throughout the day. Overall, a serving of soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the added ingredients.

Variations and Combinations

This soup recipe is extremely versatile. You can experiment with various vegetables depending on the season or your preferences. It is also delicious when paired with a fresh green salad or a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or natural fruit juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type chosen.

2. Can I prepare the soup in advance?
Yes, the soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors intensify, and the soup will be even tastier the next day. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it's recommended to do so without the pasta, as it can become mushy after thawing. Add the fresh pasta after defrosting.

A Personal Note

This soup reminds me of my childhood when my mother used all the vegetables from the garden to create a tasty and healthy dish. I loved helping with chopping the vegetables and smelling the enticing aromas in the air. I hope this recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and wonderful moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!