Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

This Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is the perfect cozy dish to warm you up on chilly days. Packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and hearty legumes, this one-pot recipe not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: This soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and beans.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or a side; it pairs well with crusty bread and green salads.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or legumes based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Italian Minestrone Soup even easier, gather some essential kitchen tools before getting started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for easy stirring and prevents overflow while the soup simmers.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensuring accurate measurements helps achieve consistent flavor every time.

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!

• 1 onion finely diced
• 2 carrots finely diced
• 2 celery sticks finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves diced
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 potato diced into cubes
• 4 cups vegetable broth – I’ve used low sodium
• 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 – I’ve used farfalline pastina
• 3 cups spinach – roughly chopped
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 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. Sauté together over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add the diced garlic and tomato paste to the pot. Sauté for an additional 3–5 minutes until fragrant, ensuring that the tomato paste turns a deep dark red color.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the diced potato, parmesan rind (if using), 2 cups of water, and dried lentils (if using). Season well with salt and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil, then cover it with a lid and let it simmer on low-medium heat for about 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Lentils

If you’re using canned lentils, now is the time to add them along with the canned beans. Continue simmering with the lid on for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Optional Portion

(Optional) If you prefer a creamier texture in your soup, remove about 2 cups of it from the pot. Transfer this portion into a blender and blend until smooth before returning it back into the pot.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Add small pasta to the soup mixture. Allow it to cook according to package instructions (usually about 7 minutes), tasting occasionally for seasoning. If you find that your broth is too thick, feel free to add an extra cup or two of water.

Step 7: Add Spinach

When your pasta is nearly al dente but still firm, stir in roughly chopped spinach. Cook just until wilted—this should take only a few minutes.

Step 8: Serve Your Delicious Soup

Remove bay leaves and parmesan rind if used before serving. Ladle generous portions of your flavorful Italian Minestrone Soup into bowls. Finish off each bowl with an optional drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, grated cheese if desired, black pepper, or red pepper flakes. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Serving Italian Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. This comforting dish not only warms the soul but also allows for creativity on how you present it. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Herb Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of herb-infused olive oil elevates the taste.

Accompanied by Grated Cheese

• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino: Add a generous amount of grated cheese for a creamy, savory touch.
• Vegan Cheese Alternative: For a plant-based option, use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds.

Side of Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve with slices of crusty sourdough for dipping and soaking up the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs beautifully, adding an aromatic flavor.

Garnished with Spices

• Black Pepper: A sprinkle of fresh black pepper enhances the flavors further.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

To truly master Italian Minestrone Soup, consider these helpful tips. Each step can significantly enhance the overall taste and texture of your soup.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables provide better flavor and nutrients compared to canned ones.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook to ensure balanced seasoning; avoid over-salting at first.
• Include Variety in Beans: Mixing different beans can add texture and depth to your minestrone.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer not to thicken the soup too much, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few hours or overnight can deepen the flavors.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using homemade vegetable broth for richer taste compared to store-bought options.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Pairing side dishes with Italian Minestrone Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices that complement this hearty soup beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a perfect contrast to the soup’s warmth and richness.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness and acidity.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer an additional layer of nutrition and flavor.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The melty goodness of grilled cheese is a classic companion that pleases everyone.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon complements the heartiness of the soup well.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans make a filling side dish that matches nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold preparation: Not prepping your ingredients beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Chop all vegetables before starting for a smoother cooking process.
• Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning at different stages of cooking can result in bland soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go along.
• Bold pasta timing: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy results. Wait until the soup is almost ready before adding it for the best texture.
• Bold broth choice: Using a low-quality broth can affect the flavor of the soup. Opt for a good-quality vegetable broth or make your own for maximum taste.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Not sticking to the recommended beans or lentils can alter the texture and flavor. Use cannellini beans or lentils for authentic taste.
• Bold overcooking spinach: Adding spinach too soon can cause it to lose its vibrant color and nutrients. Stir it in at the end for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup).

What makes this Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) healthy?

This soup is packed with vegetables and legumes, providing essential nutrients while being low in calories.

Can I customize my Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute different beans depending on your preference.

How do I ensure my pasta doesn’t get mushy?

Add pasta towards the end of cooking when your soup is nearly done, ensuring it cooks al dente.

What should I serve with my Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

Crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs well with this hearty soup for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is not only comforting but also versatile and nutritious. Feel free to customize it with seasonal vegetables or your favorite legumes. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 bowls 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of homemade Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup), a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for chilly days. This one-pot wonder is brimming with an array of vibrant vegetables and protein-rich legumes, creating a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul. In under an hour, you can whip up this comforting soup, making it ideal for cozy nights at home or when entertaining guests. With its customizable ingredients, this recipe invites creativity—use your favorite seasonal veggies or legumes to make it your own. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a delightful dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 onion
• 2 carrots
• 2 celery sticks
• 2 garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 potato
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• ½ cup lentils
• 1 can cannellini beans
• 1 cup small pasta
• 3 cups spinach
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot; sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and bay leaves until softened.
2. Add garlic and tomato paste; sauté until fragrant.
3. Pour in vegetable broth, diced potato, water, and lentils; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. If using canned lentils, add them along with the cannellini beans; simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Stir in small pasta and cook according to package instructions.
6. Add spinach just before serving; stir until wilted.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings like olive oil drizzle or grated cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 245
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 0mg