Italian Green Minestrone di Verdure: A Hearty and Wholesome Vegetable Soup

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Minestrone di Verdure, a classic Italian vegetable soup, is a comforting and nutritious dish that embodies the essence of Italian home cooking. This version, bursting with vibrant green vegetables and enriched with hearty beans and pasta, is perfect for those seeking a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a warm and cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a light yet filling lunch, this Italian Green Minestrone is a versatile dish that delivers both flavor and nourishment. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 large zucchini, chopped
  • 2 cups of green beans, trimmed and chopped into 1-inch segments
  • 1 small head of savoy cabbage, finely shredded
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for a more traditional minestrone)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or orzo)
  • 2 tablespoons pesto sauce (optional, for added flavor)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender and the onions turn translucent.
  2. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped zucchini, green beans, and shredded savoy cabbage. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften further.
  3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with the water. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them to the pot as well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
  4. Add the Beans and Pasta: Stir in the peas, cannellini beans, and small pasta. Continue to cook the soup for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the peas are tender. If the soup thickens too much, simply stir in additional water or broth until you achieve the preferred consistency.
  5. Enhance the Flavor (Optional): For an added burst of flavor, stir in the pesto sauce.
  6. Serve the Soup: Ladle the hot minestrone into bowls. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Conclusion:

This Italian Green Minestrone di Verdure is more than just a soup; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing. The combination of tender vegetables, hearty beans, and pasta, all simmered in a flavorful broth, makes this minestrone a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with a slice of crusty bread or on its own, this soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Make it a part of your regular menu and enjoy the taste of Italy in every spoonful!

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