Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

This Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul. Packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty legumes, this one-pot dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Its rich flavors and nutritional benefits make it suitable for various occasions, from family gatherings to a simple weeknight meal. Dive into this delicious bowl of goodness and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious ingredients: Loaded with veggies and legumes, this soup is a healthy choice that nourishes your body.
• Easy to make: With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile options: Customize the soup by using your favorite beans or adding more seasonal vegetables.
• Perfect for batch cooking: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for future meals.
• Deliciously comforting: The warmth and richness of the soup provide a satisfying experience on chilly days.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Italian Minestrone Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for preparing soups and stews, allowing ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures efficient chopping of vegetables, making prep time quicker and safer.

Ingredients

This Italian Minestrone Soup is the definition of comfort food. Its a one pot soup packed with nutrients, veggies and legumes, not to mention super delicious!

Vegetables

• 1 onion finely diced
• 2 carrots finely diced
• 2 celery sticks finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves diced
• 2 bay leaves

Base Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 potato diced into cubes
• 4 cups vegetable broth – low sodium preferred

Legumes & Pasta

• ½ cup dried lentils or 1 can cooked lentils
• 1 can (15oz / 400g) cannellini beans or preferred beans
• 1 cup (4.5oz / 125g) small pasta – farfalline pastina recommended

Greens & Seasoning

• 3 cups spinach – roughly chopped
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

• Optional parmesan cheese rind (omit for vegan recipe)
• Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley
• Black pepper and/or red pepper flakes
• Grated parmesan cheese or pecorino
• Crusty bread

How to Make Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, add the olive oil, onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Add a good pinch of salt and sauté together for about 5 minutes over medium heat until the onions are translucent and vegetables start to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add the diced garlic cloves and tomato paste; sauté for another 3-5 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the tomato paste turns a deep dark red color.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Lentils

Pour in the vegetable broth, add the diced potato, optional parmesan rind, 2 cups of water, and dried lentils (if using canned lentils, wait until later). Season well with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer with the lid on for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans

If you are using canned lentils, add them along with the cannellini beans now. Continue to simmer with the lid on for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

Remove about 2 cups of the soup from the pot. Transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour it back into the pot.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Add in the small pasta to cook according to package instructions (usually about 7 minutes). Taste for seasoning; if it’s too thick, feel free to add an additional cup or two of water.

Step 7: Add Spinach

When pasta is nearly al dente, stir in the chopped spinach. Allow it to wilt in the soup for just a few minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Remove bay leaves and any parmesan rind if used. Serve your delicious Italian Minestrone Soup hot with an optional drizzle of olive oil on top. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Serving Italian Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience that allows you to customize each bowl to your liking. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and textures.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Add fresh basil for a fragrant touch that elevates the soup’s flavor.
• Parsley Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness and adds depth.

Cheese Options

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory finish (omit for vegan).
• Pecorino Cheese: For a sharper taste, try pecorino cheese as an alternative.

Accompanying Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping, adding texture to each spoonful.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly, bringing an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Perfecting your Italian Minestrone Soup can elevate it from good to exceptional. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is the best it can be.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook; this allows you to control saltiness and flavor depth.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal or favorite vegetables; zucchini, green beans, or kale work beautifully.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta for the best texture; it will continue cooking slightly after adding it to the soup.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before mixing it back in—this creates a lovely consistency without cream.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Minestrone Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a refreshing complement.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar provide a light and flavorful side.
3. Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter offer a delightful addition for dipping into the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring extra nutrients and flavor that align well with the soup’s profile.
5. Crispy Polenta Fries: These are great for added crunch while soaking up delicious broth.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key points that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables adds depth to the soup. Don’t rush this process; take time to soften the onions and carrots for maximum flavor.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper throughout cooking.
• Ignoring cooking times for pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and aim for al dente to maintain a nice texture.
• Using the wrong beans: Not all beans work equally well in minestrone. Stick to cannellini or other white beans for the best results.
• Forgetting about fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Don’t skip adding basil or parsley at serving for a bright finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Minestrone Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Minestrone Soup.

What makes it a Longevity Soup?

Italian Minestrone Soup is packed with vitamins and nutrients from various vegetables and legumes, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Can I make Italian Minestrone Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply omit any cheese rind or dairy toppings, and you will have a delicious vegan version of this comforting soup.

What vegetables can I add to my Italian Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to customize your minestrone by adding zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers based on your preferences or seasonal availability.

How long does Italian Minestrone Soup last in the fridge?

The soup typically lasts up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is not only nourishing but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies and legumes while enjoying its rich flavors. Whether served on a chilly evening or as part of meal prep for the week, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try today!