Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

This Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family. Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and legumes, this hearty soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. Its versatility means you can enjoy it as a main dish or as an appetizer. With every spoonful, you’ll experience the rich flavors that come from simple yet wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Nutritious: This soup is packed with vegetables and legumes, making it a great source of vitamins and fiber.
• Easy to Make: With just one pot required, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite beans or seasonal vegetables for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly: A tasty way to get kids to eat their veggies without them noticing!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without overflow.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, carrots, and celery quick and easy, saving you time in prep.
• Blender: Optional for creating a smooth puree if desired; enhances the texture of your soup.

Ingredients

This Italian Minestrone Soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s 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

Base Ingredients

• 2 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 potato, diced into cubes
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
• ½ cup dried lentils or 1 can cooked lentils
• 1 can (15oz / 400g) cannellini beans or preferred beans

Pasta & Greens

• 1 cup (4.5oz / 125g) small pasta (farfalline pastina recommended)
• 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped

Liquid & Seasoning

• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: parmesan cheese rind (omit for vegan recipe)

Garnishes

• 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)

Follow these steps to create your own comforting bowl of Italian Minestrone Soup.

Step 1: Sauté 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 5 minutes over medium heat until the onions are translucent, and the vegetables are starting 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 and the tomato paste reaches a deep dark red color.

Step 3: Combine Base Ingredients

Add the vegetable broth, potato, optional parmesan rind, 2 cups of water, and dried lentils (if using canned lentils, wait until next step). Season well with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low-medium. Cover with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Add Beans & Lentils

If using canned lentils, add them along with the canned beans after simmering. Continue to simmer covered for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

Remove 2 cups of the soup from the pot. Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth if desired.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Pour the blended puree back into the pot if blended. Add in your small pasta. Allow it to cook according to package instructions—usually about 7 minutes—while tasting for seasoning along the way. If needed, add more water if the broth appears too thick.

Step 7: Add Spinach

When your pasta is nearly cooked but still al dente, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook briefly until wilted.

Step 8: Serve

Remove bay leaves and parmesan rind before serving. Ladle generous portions into bowls topped with an optional drizzle of olive oil, grated parmesan cheese or pecorino, black pepper, or red pepper flakes. Enjoy your delicious Italian Minestrone Soup!

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 soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the soup and adds a savory touch.

Paired with Grated Cheese

• Parmesan or Pecorino: Top your bowl with freshly grated cheese for added creaminess and umami notes.

Served Alongside Crusty Bread

• Crusty Baguette or Sourdough: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping, making each spoonful even more satisfying.

Accompanied by a Simple Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty soup wonderfully, balancing the meal.

Enjoyed as a Leftover

• Reheated for Next Day’s Lunch: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers!

How to Perfect Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Perfecting Italian Minestrone Soup involves attention to detail and personal touches. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making skills:

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile of your soup. Consider adding thyme or oregano for extra depth.
• Quality Broth: Use homemade or high-quality vegetable broth. It significantly impacts the overall taste, making it rich and satisfying.
• Consistent Veggie Sizes: Chop vegetables into uniform sizes. This ensures that they cook evenly and provide a pleasant texture in every bite.
• Adjust Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, add additional vegetable broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before mixing it back in. This creates a delightful contrast between smooth and chunky elements.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings at different stages of cooking. This helps build layers of flavor throughout the process.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

Pairing side dishes with Italian Minestrone Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside; it’s perfect for dipping into your minestrone soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make a flavorful side that complements the soup’s ingredients.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad featuring quinoa mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon adds protein and freshness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, vegetables, or beans for an extra heartiness alongside your soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: Arrange olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers as an appetizer that pairs beautifully with minestrone.
7. Cheesy Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes with cheese add a comforting element that goes hand-in-hand with your delicious soup.
8. Savory Muffins: Herb-infused muffins bring an interesting twist while providing an easy way to soak up every last drop of minestrone!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preparing Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can detract from the final result.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the vegetables initially can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to take time to cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft and fragrant.
• Neglecting Flavor Seasoning: Not seasoning your broth properly can result in a lack of depth. Remember to taste and adjust with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from heat.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Opting for low-quality vegetable broth can affect the overall taste. A homemade or high-quality store-bought broth significantly enhances flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Leaving out fresh herbs like basil or parsley diminishes freshness. Always add fresh herbs just before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Not Blending the Soup: Skipping the optional blending step may miss out on a creamy texture. Blending a portion of the soup adds richness without heavy cream.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• The Italian Minestrone Soup is best consumed within 3-4 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste and quality.

Reheating Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat soup in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) vegan?

Yes! Simply omit any cheese rind and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What vegetables can I add to my Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers based on your preference.

How do I thicken my Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and return it back to the pot.

Is it okay to use canned beans in my Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)?

Absolutely! Canned beans save prep time and are perfectly fine; just rinse them before adding to avoid excess sodium.

Final Thoughts

Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup) is not only nourishing but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or legumes based on what you have at hand. It’s perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!

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Italian Minestrone Soup (Longevity Soup)

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and richness of Italian Minestrone Soup, also known as Longevity Soup, a delightful dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. Bursting with vibrant vegetables and protein-packed legumes, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly nights or as a nourishing option for gatherings with loved ones. Its flexibility allows you to customize it according to your taste, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or family dinner. With every spoonful, savor the wholesome flavors derived from fresh ingredients, creating a fulfilling and nutritious experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 (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 (farfalline pastina recommended)
• 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves for about 5 minutes until soft.
2. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook for another 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in vegetable broth, potato, water, and lentils (if using dried). Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes.
4. If using canned lentils and beans, add them now and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Blend a portion of the soup if desired for creaminess.
6. Cook pasta according to package instructions in the soup.
7. Stir in spinach until wilted before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg