When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. And if you’re looking for a dish that is both hearty and healthy, Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup is a fantastic choice. This classic Italian recipe combines fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a savory broth that hits all the right notes. It’s versatile, rich in flavor, and a surefire way to get your family to gather around the table.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is that it can be made ahead of time, frozen, and served whenever you need a quick, nutritious meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies from the fridge, making it an eco-friendly and budget-friendly dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing for a cozy dinner, this Minestrone Soup is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Martha Stewart Minestrone Soup Recipe
Martha Stewart’s version of Minestrone Soup is a celebration of seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta, all simmered together in a deliciously rich broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food and also a perfect way to get your daily dose of fiber and vitamins. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility-feel free to tweak the ingredients to your liking or based on what’s in season.
Ingredients Needed
The list of ingredients for Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup is fairly straightforward, but it’s these very ingredients that create a harmonious flavor profile.
- Olive oil: This will be used to sauté the vegetables and create a flavorful base.
- Yellow onion: A classic base for soups, adding a mild sweetness.
- Carrots: Fresh and slightly sweet, carrots add texture and color.
- Celery: A savory crunch, celery balances the sweetness of the carrots and onions.
- Garlic: A must for aromatic depth and complexity.
- Zucchini: Tender and slightly sweet, zucchini helps bulk up the soup.
- Green beans: They add a pop of color and texture, making the soup even more hearty.
- Potatoes: The starch from potatoes thickens the soup, making it more filling.
- Diced tomatoes: They give the soup its vibrant red color and a slight acidity to balance the flavors.
- Cannellini beans: These creamy beans contribute to the soup’s rich texture and heartiness.
- Vegetable broth: The base for your soup, this adds all the savory umami flavor.
- Pasta (such as ditalini or small elbow macaroni): Adds chewiness and makes the soup more filling.
- Spinach or kale: A handful of leafy greens enhances the nutrition and flavor profile of the soup.
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, thyme): A burst of freshness to round out the dish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, to enhance all of the ingredients.
Cooking Instructions
Making this Minestrone Soup is a straightforward process, but the results are incredibly rewarding. Here’s how you can make it:
- Prepare the vegetables: Start by dicing the onions, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Chop the garlic and set aside the green beans, potatoes, and spinach (or kale).
- Sauté the base: In a large soup pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the liquids and vegetables: Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir in the potatoes, diced tomatoes, green beans, and zucchini. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add beans and pasta: Stir in the cannellini beans and pasta. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the soup has thickened.
- Finish with greens and seasoning: Once the pasta is ready, stir in the spinach or kale. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of dried thyme or basil for extra flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil if desired, and top with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup brings something unique to the table. Let’s break down a few highlights:
- Cannellini Beans: These beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and iron, making them an essential part of this soup’s nutritional profile. They are creamy and mild, and they absorb the flavors of the broth beautifully.
- Zucchini: This vegetable is often overlooked but deserves a spotlight. Not only does it bring a lovely texture, but it’s also low in calories and rich in antioxidants, like vitamin C. It’s a wonderful addition for anyone looking to eat light but still feel full.
- Leafy Greens (Spinach or Kale): Both spinach and kale are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium and iron. They contribute not just to the flavor but also to the overall health benefits of this soup.
- Vegetable Broth: Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth, or even better, homemade broth if you can. It forms the backbone of this soup’s flavor, so you’ll want something that’s rich and flavorful. Avoid the overly salty versions-add salt as needed later.
Expert Tips
If you want to take your Minestrone Soup to the next level, consider these expert tips:
- Use homemade broth: If you have the time, making your own vegetable broth can add an extra layer of depth to the soup. It’s surprisingly easy to make and can elevate your soup beyond store-bought options.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Pasta can quickly become mushy in soups, so it’s essential to cook it al dente. If you plan on storing leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it when reheating to keep its texture intact.
- Let the soup sit: Like many soups and stews, Minestrone tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. If possible, make it a day ahead for the best flavor.
- Add Parmesan rind: If you have a leftover Parmesan rind, throw it into the pot while the soup simmers. It adds an umami-packed richness that will transform the soup.
- Make it a meal: If you’re looking for a more filling meal, pair the soup with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Recipe Variations
Minestrone is one of those soups that’s incredibly versatile. Here are some variations you can try:
- Swap out the beans: If you don’t have cannellini beans, any white bean or even kidney beans will work. You can also use chickpeas for a slightly nuttier flavor.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to get creative! Leeks, bell peppers, or parsnips can replace some of the veggies in the original recipe. If you have root vegetables like sweet potatoes, those work too!
- Add meat: For a heartier version, add Italian sausage or pancetta for a meatier soup. You could even toss in some diced ham or cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Go gluten-free: If you want a gluten-free version, simply omit the pasta or use gluten-free pasta. Alternatively, you could use quinoa or farro as a substitute.
Final Words
Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup is a recipe that embodies the essence of comfort food-warm, hearty, and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s the type of dish that brings people together around the table and nourishes both the body and soul. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable, making it easy to tweak based on your personal taste preferences or whatever vegetables you have on hand.
This soup isn’t just for cold weather either. It’s a versatile dish you can enjoy year-round, thanks to the wide variety of fresh ingredients available in every season. Whether you’re prepping it for a weeknight meal or serving it at a dinner party, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Used In Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup Recipe?
Martha Stewart’s minestrone soup recipe typically includes olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, tomatoes, zucchini, spinach, beans (such as cannellini or kidney beans), pasta, vegetable or chicken broth, and a variety of herbs like thyme, basil, and bay leaves. Parmesan cheese is often added for flavor.
Can I Make Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make Martha Stewart’s minestrone soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any meat-based ingredients. This recipe is naturally flexible and can be adjusted to meet vegetarian preferences.
How Long Does It Take To Make Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup?
The preparation time for Martha Stewart’s minestrone soup is typically around 15 minutes, while the cooking time is about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the heat level and desired consistency.
Can I Make Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, this minestrone soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What Type Of Pasta Should I Use In Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup Recipe?
Martha Stewart recommends using small pasta shapes such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo. These pasta types work well in the soup as they fit easily on a spoon and absorb the flavors of the broth.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables For Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables as a substitute for fresh ones, especially if you’re in a hurry or can’t find certain fresh vegetables. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.
Is There A Gluten-free Option For Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup?
To make the soup gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure that all the broth and other ingredients are gluten-free. Many stores now carry gluten-free pasta options that will work perfectly in this recipe.
What Can I Serve With Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup?
Martha Stewart’s minestrone soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple cheese platter. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top of the soup can also enhance the flavor.
Can I Add Meat To Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup?
Yes, you can add meat to this soup. Common additions include pancetta, bacon, or ground beef, which can be sautéed at the beginning of the recipe before adding the vegetables and broth.
How Can I Adjust The Flavor Of Martha Stewart’s Minestrone Soup?
To adjust the flavor of the soup, you can increase or decrease the amount of herbs and seasonings such as thyme, basil, oregano, or bay leaves. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.