Minestrone

Minestrone is a classic Italian soup known for its hearty and flavorful combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta. This recipe adds an extra twist by incorporating extra-lean ground beef, making it a satisfying meal in a bowl. Minestrone is a versatile soup that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs, making it a comforting and nourishing dish for any occasion.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds (900 g) extra-lean ground beef
• 1 cup (160 g) chopped onion
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 can (28 ounces, or 785 g) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 2 cups (512 g) kidney beans, cooked or canned without salt
• ½ cup (50 g) sliced celery
• 1½ cups (180 g) diced zucchini
• 2 cups (475 ml) low-sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

PREPARATION:

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the extra-lean ground beef. Drain the excess fat.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the browned beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, sliced celery, diced zucchini, low-sodium beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours.

YIELD:

• 10 servings

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• 239 g water; 284 calories (50% from fat, 31% from protein, 19% from carb)
• 22 g protein; 16 g total fat; 6 g saturated fat; 7 g monounsaturated fat; 1 g polyunsaturated fat
• 13 g carb; 5 g fiber; 3 g sugar; 213 mg phosphorus; 61 mg calcium; 4 mg iron; 107 mg sodium
• 656 mg potassium; 168 IU vitamin A; 0 mg ATE vitamin E; 12 mg vitamin C; 63 mg cholesterol

Minestrone soup is a beloved Italian dish known for its robust flavors and wholesome ingredients. This recipe takes the traditional minestrone to the next level by adding extra-lean ground beef, transforming it into a more substantial and satisfying meal.

The star ingredient in this minestrone is the extra-lean ground beef, which adds protein and richness to the soup. Combined with the aromatic onions and garlic, the beef infuses the soup with savory flavors that complement the other ingredients. The soup features a medley of vegetables, including diced tomatoes, kidney beans, celery, and zucchini, providing a variety of textures and flavors. The low-sodium beef broth serves as the base, adding depth to the soup without overpowering the other ingredients.

The slow cooker method used in this recipe allows the flavors to meld together over the course of 8 to 10 hours of cooking. This slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and the vegetables to soften while maintaining their vibrant colors and nutrients. The result is a hearty and comforting soup with a harmonious blend of flavors.

Nutritionally, this Minestrone recipe offers a balanced combination of macronutrients. It is high in protein, with 22 grams per serving, which helps support satiety and muscle health. The soup also contains fiber-rich kidney beans and vegetables, providing 5 grams of fiber per serving. Fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to a feeling of fullness. The soup is relatively low in sodium, especially when using no-salt-added diced tomatoes and low-sodium beef broth, making it a healthier option compared to canned soups.

Minestrone soup is highly versatile and can be customized according to your preferences. You can add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy most. Some popular additions include diced potatoes, green beans, spinach, or cabbage. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile. Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can add an extra layer of aromatic goodness.

Serve this hearty Minestrone soup with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Make a large batch and enjoy the leftovers, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Experience the comforting flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with this beefy Minestrone soup. Each spoonful is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and the joy of sharing a nourishing meal with loved ones.