Winter Minestrone Soup

This Winter Minestrone Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. It’s perfect for chilly days when you need a warm, satisfying meal. With bold Italian flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is a cozy favorite for winter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
• One-Pot Meal – Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
• Rich & Flavorful – A deep, comforting tomato broth infused with herbs.
• Customizable – Use your favorite seasonal veggies and beans.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (for depth of flavor)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in garlic, butternut squash, and zucchini, cooking for another 3 minutes.

2. Add the Broth & Beans

• Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, and tomato paste.
• Add oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

3. Cook the Pasta

• Stir in pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
• Add chopped kale or spinach and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Finish & Serve

• Stir in balsamic vinegar and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
• Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Protein Boost – Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
• Spicy Version – Increase red pepper flakes or add chili powder.
• Creamy Minestrone – Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk.
• Low-Carb Option – Skip pasta and add cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months (leave out pasta and add when reheating).
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes.

What’s the best pasta for minestrone?

Ditalini, orzo, or small shells work best.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding pasta in the last 30 minutes.

How do I prevent mushy pasta?

Cook pasta separately and add when serving.

Can I add potatoes instead of pasta?

Yes! Use diced Yukon gold or red potatoes.

What can I serve with this soup?

Garlic bread, a green salad, or grilled cheese.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes! Sauté veggies in vegetable broth instead of oil.

How do I make this soup thicker?

Blend 1 cup of beans with broth and stir back into the soup.

What’s the best way to add extra flavor?

A splash of balsamic vinegar or a Parmesan rind in the broth.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Winter Minestrone Soup is a hearty, wholesome meal filled with warming flavors and nourishing ingredients. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s perfect for cozy winter nights. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of comforting, homemade goodness!

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