Hearty Vegetable Minestrone: Wholesome Comfort

There’s something truly satisfying about a warm bowl of Hearty Vegetable Minestrone. This recipe is more than just a soup; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day, a wholesome medley of flavors and textures that nourishes both body and soul. From the first spoonful to the last, this minestrone takes you on a journey through the heartiness of vegetables, the richness of broth, and the comfort of well-balanced seasonings.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Saute the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they begin to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and oregano.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Add the zucchini, green beans, and elbow macaroni. Cook until the pasta and vegetables are tender.
6. Season the minestrone with salt and pepper according to your taste.
7. Serve the minestrone hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

A hearty and wholesome vegetable minestrone soup that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.

Nutrition information: Calories: 180, Carbohydrates: 32g, Protein: 8g, Fat: 3.5g

Whether enjoyed as a soul-soothing meal on a rainy day or a delightful way to pack in those nutrient-rich veggies, this Hearty Vegetable Minestrone is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. It’s a reminder that comfort can be found in a single bowl, and that good food has the power to uplift and nourish us in more ways than one.