Easy Minestrone Soup

The Aroma of Comfort in a Bowl

Nothing beats the warm, inviting aroma of Easy Minestrone Soup bubbling away on the stove. Imagine the medley of fresh vegetables mingling with herbs—can you smell it? What sets this soup apart is how quickly it comes together in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how a handful of humble ingredients transforms into a steaming bowl of goodness in less than an hour!

Reasons You’ll Fall in Love

First off, this recipe makes cleanup a breeze. Who wants a mountain of dirty dishes after a cozy dinner? Not me! Plus, it’s totally affordable—with basic ingredients that won’t break the bank. And let’s be real, the whole family will love it, even the picky eaters. Who doesn’t enjoy slurping up colorful veggies and pasta?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup pasta (such as small shells or elbow)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

Ready? Let’s get cooking!

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash, cooking for another 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Stir in the cannellini beans and green beans; cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
8. Adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

How to Make Easy Minestrone Soup (Overview)

Making Easy Minestrone Soup is as easy as 1-2-3 (well, technically 9). Start by sautéing your aromatics like the onion, carrots, and celery—the smell will get you hooked! Next, toss in your zucchini and yellow squash, followed by canned goodies like diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Let it simmer and get comfy, then bring in the beans and pasta. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic—it makes all the difference!

How to Serve Easy Minestrone Soup

Once you ladle this beauty into bowls, the vibrant colors of the veggies will have your family racing to the table. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra pop of green, and maybe serve it with some crusty bread on the side for that satisfying crunch. The warm, hearty aroma will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian bistro—who can resist that?

How to Store Easy Minestrone Soup

Got leftovers? No problem! This soup keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container for freshness. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and reheat on the stove. Easy peasy!

Tips to Make Easy Minestrone Soup

• Use seasonal vegetables for a fresh twist. What’s in your fridge? Toss it in!
• If you prefer a heartier soup, add more pasta or beans for extra texture.
• Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if it gets too thick—nobody likes a lump of soup!
• Test out different herbs; thyme or basil can give it a whole new flair.
• Spice it up a bit with a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Make it vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping any dairy toppings. You could also throw in some kale or spinach for added nutrition. Feeling adventurous? Add a little bit of Italian sausage for a meaty twist!

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes even better when the flavors have time to marinate overnight.

2. What can I substitute for pasta?
Try using quinoa or rice if you want to keep it gluten-free. They give the soup that comforting touch too!

3. Can I freeze Easy Minestrone Soup?
Yes—just let it cool, then freeze in portions. Perfect for those busy nights when you need something quick and healthy!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Easy Minestrone Soup

This quick and comforting soup is packed with fresh vegetables and hearty flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup pasta (such as small shells or elbow)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• to taste Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Cooking

1. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans and green beans; cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

This soup can keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enhance flavors, making it a day ahead is preferred.