Minestrone soup is a thick and hearty vegetable soup that is usually made with a combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta. The soup is flavored with garlic, onions, and herbs, and is often finished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for cold winter days or anytime you want a comforting bowl of soup.

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐  Prep-Time – 40 minutes    Serving-Size– 6 people

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 yellow squash, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (14 oz)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

• Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
• Add the onion and garlic and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Add the carrots and celery and sauté for another 5 minutes.
• Add the zucchini and yellow squash and sauté for another 5 minutes.
• Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, broth, basil, oregano, and thyme to the pot.
• Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Add the macaroni to the pot and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
• Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Relevant Notes & Tips:

• You can use any combination of vegetables you like in this soup.
• If you want a thicker soup, you can add more pasta or beans.
• This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated.