Italian Green Bean Soup, also known as "Minestrone di Fagiolini", is one of those soul-warming, hearty dishes that reflect the richness of Italian cuisine. It’s a rustic, comforting soup that’s perfect for cold weather, packed with vegetables and infused with a medley of herbs and rich tomato flavor. This soup has been passed down through generations, enjoyed by families in Italy for its simplicity, health benefits, and satisfying nature. It’s not just a meal, but an experience-a blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that make you feel like you’re sitting in a Tuscan kitchen.
The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility. It can be adapted to fit the season or what you have on hand. But at its core, it’s all about the green beans-the main ingredient that brings this dish together-combined with a flavorful broth, onions, garlic, and other seasonal vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it to impress guests, this soup is sure to win everyone over. Let’s dive deeper into the recipe so you can bring this classic Italian comfort food to your table!
Italian Green Bean Soup Recipe
This recipe brings together fresh green beans, vegetables, and a burst of savory seasonings, creating a comforting soup that feels like home. You can easily whip it up in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Ingredients Needed
- Fresh Green Beans (about 1 pound) – Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For sautéing the vegetables and giving the soup that rich Mediterranean flavor.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium) – Finely chopped for a slightly sweet and savory base.
- Carrot (1 large) – Peeled and diced for added sweetness and color.
- Celery Stalks (2) – Chopped to contribute a mild earthy flavor.
- Garlic Cloves (3) – Minced to infuse that quintessential garlic essence into the broth.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – For a rich, tangy base.
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – Provides the liquid foundation for the soup and adds depth to the flavor.
- Fresh Basil (2 sprigs) – Chopped for freshness and a touch of aromatic sweetness.
- Bay Leaves (2) – Adds a subtle, herbal depth.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – For a savory, umami kick (optional, but highly recommended).
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – Chopped for garnish.
Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Start by trimming the green beans and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. This step may take a few minutes, but it sets the foundation for your soup.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Stir occasionally, letting the vegetables soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute or so, just until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and the vegetable broth. Give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the bay leaves and fresh basil.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Green Beans: After the soup has simmered for a bit, throw in the chopped green beans. Continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still retain some bite.
- Season and Finish: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness and depth. Remove the bay leaves and stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with additional Parmesan if desired, and enjoy your hearty Italian green bean soup!
Ingredient Insights
- Green Beans: These are the heart of this soup. Not only do they provide texture and a fresh flavor, but green beans are also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. They’re low in calories, making this soup both healthy and satisfying.
- Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, extra virgin olive oil imparts a fruity and peppery flavor. It also contains healthy fats, which help with the absorption of vitamins and antioxidants in the soup.
- Canned Tomatoes: The acidity and slight sweetness from the tomatoes elevate the overall taste of the soup. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
- Herbs: Fresh basil and bay leaves bring an aromatic element to the soup, enhancing its savory profile. Fresh herbs offer a burst of essential oils that contribute to the dish’s complexity.
Expert Tips
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, try using homemade vegetable broth for a richer, more personalized flavor. It can make a huge difference in the depth of the soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Beans: While you want the green beans to be tender, avoid overcooking them. You should still be able to taste their freshness and snap when you bite into them.
- Season in Layers: Taste the soup at different stages of cooking and adjust seasoning as needed. A little salt at the beginning, some towards the end, and a sprinkle of Parmesan at the very last moment adds great flavor depth.
- Make It Ahead: Like most soups, this one gets better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Recipe Variations
- Add Beans: Want more protein? Try adding white beans or chickpeas to the soup for extra texture and nutrition. Cannellini beans work wonderfully with the other vegetables.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic to give the soup a slight kick. If you’re a fan of heat, this can be a fun addition.
- Vegan Version: Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a dairy-free option. Use a vegetable-based broth and make sure any added seasoning is vegan-friendly.
- Pasta Option: For a more filling meal, add some small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni) into the soup about 10 minutes before the end of cooking. Just be mindful of how the pasta absorbs the broth; you may need to add a bit more liquid.
Final Words
The beauty of this Italian Green Bean Soup lies not only in its simple ingredients but also in how each one works together to create a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts. It’s light yet filling, rich in flavor but not overwhelming, and offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and herbal notes. Plus, it’s versatile-whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make a few adjustments, it’s a soup that adapts to your preferences.
FAQs
What Is Italian Green Bean Soup?
Italian green bean soup, also known as “minestra di fagiolini”, is a traditional Italian dish made with fresh green beans, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and often includes other vegetables like onions, carrots, and potatoes. It’s typically served as a light yet filling meal, with a base of vegetable broth or sometimes meat-based broth.
What Are The Key Ingredients In An Italian Green Bean Soup Recipe?
The key ingredients in Italian green bean soup include fresh green beans, tomatoes (either fresh or canned), garlic, olive oil, onion, carrots, potatoes, and vegetable or chicken broth. Some variations might include herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for added flavor.
Can I Make Italian Green Bean Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, Italian green bean soup can easily be made vegetarian. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and avoid any meat-based ingredients, like bacon or sausage, which may be used in some variations for added flavor.
What Type Of Green Beans Are Best For Italian Green Bean Soup?
Fresh green beans are ideal for Italian green bean soup, but if they are not available, you can use frozen green beans as a substitute. Snap or string beans are typically preferred because they hold up well in the soup without becoming mushy.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes In Italian Green Bean Soup?
Yes, canned tomatoes are commonly used in Italian green bean soup, especially if fresh tomatoes are out of season. Make sure to use good-quality canned tomatoes, preferably whole or diced, and add them to the soup along with their juices for the best flavor.
Is There A Meat Version Of Italian Green Bean Soup?
Yes, there is a meat version of Italian green bean soup. Some variations of the recipe include pancetta, bacon, sausage, or even small pieces of chicken. These meat additions add richness and depth to the soup, making it heartier.
How Do I Make Italian Green Bean Soup Thicker?
To make Italian green bean soup thicker, you can blend a portion of the soup once it has cooked. Use an immersion blender or transfer some of the soup to a blender and puree it before returning it to the pot. Alternatively, you can add more potatoes or use a starch like rice or barley to naturally thicken the soup.
Can I Make Italian Green Bean Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, Italian green bean soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, and allow the flavors to develop. Be sure to add the green beans closer to the end of cooking time to prevent them from becoming too soft.
What Can I Serve With Italian Green Bean Soup?
Italian green bean soup is typically served with crusty bread or a slice of Italian baguette. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. A simple salad with fresh greens would also complement the soup well.
How Can I Store Leftover Italian Green Bean Soup?
Leftover Italian green bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, make sure to stir and adjust seasoning as needed.