This classic minestrone soup is a hearty, nourishing, and colorful Italian vegetable soup that makes a comforting meal year-round. Packed with vegetables, beans, pasta, and fragrant herbs, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This minestrone soup is fresh, flavorful, and filling without being heavy. The combination of aromatics, herbs, and a medley of vegetables creates a deeply satisfying broth. It’s completely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan. Serve with crusty bread for a wholesome, complete meal.

Ingredients

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

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1½ cups cooked white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ cup small pasta (elbows, shells, or orecchiette)
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional), for serving

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes until the vegetables soften.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, beans, green beans, broth, bay leaves, oregano, and thyme. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in the pasta and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
5. Season to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Total time to make is about 45 minutes: 15 minutes prep and 30 minutes cook time.

Variations

• Use zucchini, yellow squash, or fennel instead of green beans or celery.
• Swap in fresh diced tomatoes in summer.
• Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
• Replace pasta with pearled farro or barley.
• Stir in vegan pesto or regular pesto instead of cheese.
• Use dried or home-cooked beans and their cooking liquid for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta will absorb broth over time, so consider cooking pasta separately if preparing ahead. Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth as needed.

FAQs

Can I make this minestrone soup vegan?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. You can also add vegan pesto for extra flavor.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the pasta, as it can become mushy when reheated. Add fresh-cooked pasta when serving.

What pasta works best for minestrone soup?

Small shapes like elbows, orecchiette, ditalini, or shells are ideal.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, dried oregano and thyme are used in this recipe. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are great for garnish.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pasta or substitute with a grain like quinoa or rice.

What can I serve with minestrone soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad pairs perfectly.

Can I use canned beans?

Yes, just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.

How do I prevent pasta from getting soggy in leftovers?

Cook pasta separately and add to each bowl before serving.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, add all ingredients except pasta and parsley. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then stir in cooked pasta and parsley before serving.

What makes this soup so flavorful?

The soffritto base, dried herbs, garlic, and tomatoes develop a rich, savory broth that’s comforting and delicious.

Conclusion

This hearty and wholesome minestrone soup is a timeless Italian classic, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a nutritious bowl of comfort. Customizable and easy to make, it’s a must-have in your recipe collection. Enjoy it fresh with a side of bread and a sprinkle of cheese or herbs!

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