Minestrone Soup

Prepare to enjoy a substantial and satisfying meal in the form of our Minestrone Soup. This Italian classic is not just any soup; it’s a hearty meal in itself. The beauty of minestrone lies in its flexibility—mix and match seasonal vegetables to create a rich and comforting pot of goodness. With ingredients like cannellini beans, tomatoes, and pasta, this soup promises a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

SERVES 4–6
PREP 20 MIN
PLUS 8 HR SOAKING
COOK 13⁄4 HR
FREEZE UP TO 1 MONTH
AT THE END OF STEP 2

INGREDIENTS:

• 31 1/2 oz (100g) dried white cannellini beans
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 14 1/2 oz (400g) can diced tomatoes
• 21 1/2 cups (750ml) hot vegetable stock or chicken stock
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 oz (60g) small short-cut pasta
• 4 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1 1/2 oz (40g) Parmesan, finely grated

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place the dried beans in a large bowl, cover them with cold water, and leave them to soak in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. After soaking, drain the beans and place them in a large saucepan.
3. Cover the beans with cold water and bring them to a boil.
4. Boil vigorously for 10 minutes, skimming off any foam from the surface with a slotted spoon.
5. Lower the heat, partially cover the pan, and simmer for about 1 hour or until the beans become tender.
6. Drain the cooked beans and set them aside.
7.  7. Heat the olive oil in the same pan over medium heat.
8. Add the finely chopped celery, carrots, and onion.
9. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables become tender.
10. Stir in the cooked beans.
11. Add the canned diced tomatoes and their juice to the pan.
12. Pour in the hot vegetable or chicken stock.
13. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
14. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously.
15. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 20 minutes.
16. 16. Introduce the small short-cut pasta into the simmering soup.
17. Continue to simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the pasta reaches the desired al dente texture.
18. Stir in the chopped flat-leaf parsley and half of the finely grated Parmesan cheese.
19. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
20. Serve the Minestrone Soup hot, garnishing each bowl with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

NOTE:

• You can customize this Minestrone Soup with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, cabbage, and leeks for added depth of flavor.

This Minestrone Soup is a wholesome and versatile dish that’s not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. It’s a complete meal that showcases the essence of Italian comfort food. Savor each spoonful and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table!