Italian minestrone soup is a classic vegetable-packed soup that celebrates fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and deep, comforting flavor. Made with a colorful mix of vegetables, tender beans, herbs, and small pasta, this soup is hearty enough to satisfy while still feeling light and nourishing. It’s the kind of meal that fits perfectly into everyday cooking, using pantry staples to create something warm and wholesome.

Italian cuisine is known for transforming basic ingredients into unforgettable dishes. If you enjoy traditional pasta-based meals that highlight balance and simplicity, you’ll also love Spaghetti Carbonara, a timeless favorite that shows just how powerful a few quality ingredients can be.

Minestrone is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a cozy lunch. You can adapt it to the seasons, the vegetables you have on hand, and your personal taste preferences.

Italian minestrone soup served hot with pasta, vegetables, and fresh herbs

Italian Minestrone Soup – Hearty Italian Comfort Bowl

A classic Italian minestrone soup packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, simmered slowly for deep flavor. This hearty, rustic soup is comforting, nourishing, and perfect for any season.

Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings: 6

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion finely chopped
2 carrots diced
2 celery stalks diced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 zucchini diced
1 can 400 g diced tomatoes
1 can 400 g cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1.2 L vegetable broth
100 g small pasta ditalini or elbow
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Equipment

Large soup pot / Dutch oven (5–6 L)
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups / measuring jug
Can opener
Ladle

Method

Step 1 – Sauté the Base Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2 – Add Garlic and Zucchini: Stir in garlic and zucchini. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3 – Build the Soup Base: Add diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, dried oregano, and basil. Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 4 – Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 5 – Cook the Pasta: Add pasta directly to the pot and simmer for 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
Step 6 – Serve: Remove from heat, adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Notes

For best texture, cook the pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers.
This soup is very flexible — use seasonal vegetables or what you have on hand.
Freeze the soup without pasta for up to 3 months.
Serve with crusty bread and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Why this Italian minestrone soup works

A great minestrone begins with building flavor in layers. Sautéing onion, carrot, and celery creates a savory base, while garlic and herbs add aroma and depth. Tomatoes bring gentle acidity, and broth ties everything together into a rich, well-rounded soup.

Beans provide creaminess and protein, while small pasta shapes add heartiness and texture. Cooking everything together allows the ingredients to mingle and develop a cohesive, comforting flavor.

This soup strikes the perfect balance between rustic and refined. It feels homemade and cozy, yet it’s packed with vibrant colors and fresh taste. It’s filling without being heavy, making it a recipe you can enjoy year-round.

If you love Italian soups that combine beans, pasta, and tomatoes, Pasta e Fagioli is another comforting option with a similar rustic character.

Ingredient notes (what truly matters)

Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card, but these notes help ensure great results.

Vegetables
Onion, carrot, celery, zucchini, and green beans are classic choices.

Beans
Cannellini or kidney beans work beautifully.

Pasta
Small shapes such as ditalini or elbow macaroni are ideal.

Tomatoes
Crushed or diced tomatoes add richness and body.

Broth
Vegetable or chicken broth both work well.

Herbs
Italian seasoning, basil, and bay leaf enhance flavor.

Olive oil
Adds richness and aroma.

Tips for the best results

Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces
Simmer gently for best flavor
Add pasta near the end to avoid overcooking
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Drizzle with olive oil or sprinkle with Parmesan

Variations you can try

Add spinach or kale
Include potatoes or sweet potatoes
Add shredded chicken or sausage
Make it spicy with red pepper flakes
Use gluten-free pasta

Serving ideas

Italian minestrone soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious alongside a light sandwich or panini.

If you’re craving a creamy tomato-based soup with smooth texture, Creamy Tomato Basil Soup makes a wonderful cross-cluster choice.

Storage and reheating

Storage
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Freezing
Freeze without pasta for best texture.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make minestrone ahead of time?
Yes. The flavor improves after resting.

Can I use canned beans?
Yes, rinse and drain well.

Is minestrone vegetarian?
It can be when made with vegetable broth.

Final thoughts

Italian minestrone soup is a comforting, nourishing dish that showcases the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s versatile, satisfying, and perfect for everyday meals.

For general background on this traditional soup, you can consult Wikipedia – Minestrone.