Winter Minestrone Soup
Winter Minestrone Soup is a delightful dish that will warm you up on cold days. This hearty soup is not only packed with winter vegetables but also brims with flavor, making it an excellent choice for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its healthy ingredients and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your winter recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Nutrition: This soup includes a variety of winter vegetables, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, making it ideal for busy days.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and fresh produce creates a deliciously comforting experience in every bowl.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Winter Minestrone Soup, gather some essential kitchen tools that will help make the process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Perfect for simmering the soup while allowing enough space for all the ingredients to mingle.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the soup.
- Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of all your veggies, making prep work quicker.
Ingredients
This version of Minestrone is made exclusively with vegetables that are at their best in winter. Or should I say packed with them? Seriously, so many flavors in this one you will mark it as your winter favorite. Healthy, comforting, delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1½ cups cooked cannellini or butter beans, rinsed and drained (1 15 oz. can if using canned / ¾ cups if using dry)
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup red onion, diced
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock or water (only needed if you don’t cook beans yourself)
– 1 cup celeriac, cubed
– 1 medium sweet potato, diced
– 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
– 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
– Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
– 2 cups chopped fresh kale, thick ribs removed
– 3 tbsp finely chopped basil
– 2 oz (60g) Parmesan, grated (omit for vegan)
How to Make Winter Minestrone Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Beans (if using dry)
If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight in a large amount of water. Alternatively, use a quick soak method by bringing them to a boil, boiling for 3 minutes, removing from heat, covering, and letting stand for an hour. Drain and rinse the beans afterward.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
Discard the soak water and add fresh water (8 cups) for cooking. In a large pot, simmer the beans with salt and any aromatics you have on hand—such as onion, garlic, carrot, celery, rosemary, or thyme—for about 45 minutes to 1½ hours until tender. Remove the aromatics but keep the cooking liquid.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil along with carrots, celery, red onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Sauté for about 8 minutes until softened. Transfer these vegetables into the pot of bean cooking liquid along with the cooked beans.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Incorporate celeriac, sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes with juice, and quinoa into the pot. Bring everything to a boil then lower it to a simmer for about 20 minutes. Remove bay leaves once done cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches
Add chopped kale into the mixture and cook for an additional 5–8 minutes until wilted. If needed, add more water if the soup is too thick. Stir in chopped basil just before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle your Winter Minestrone Soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy every warm spoonful!
How to Serve Winter Minestrone Soup
Winter Minestrone Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious soup.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
Add a Dollop of Pesto
- A spoonful of pesto on top enhances the flavor profile and adds a lovely green color to your bowl.
Top with Grated Cheese
- Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on each serving for an extra layer of richness and a savory kick.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A light side salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s warmth and provides a refreshing contrast.
Offer Extra Herbs
- Provide fresh basil or parsley on the side for guests who want to elevate their bowl with fresh herbs.
Include Some Crackers
- Crisp crackers add texture and are another great option for scooping up the soup.
How to Perfect Winter Minestrone Soup
To make your Winter Minestrone Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, seasonal vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition. Look for local produce in winter.
- Customize Your Beans: Experiment with different beans like kidney or black beans for varied textures and tastes.
- Adjust the Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more stock or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat if you enjoy spicy dishes.
- Cook Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen its flavors. Just be sure not to let it boil over!
- Serve Hot: Always serve your minestrone hot. This makes it more comforting and enjoyable, especially in winter.
Best Side Dishes for Winter Minestrone Soup
Winter Minestrone Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can enhance your meal experience. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic goodness complements the soup beautifully and is perfect for sopping up every last drop.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds crunch and freshness alongside the warm soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offers a burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the soup.
- Cheese Scones: Savory cheese scones provide a delightful texture and flavor pairing that works well with minestrone.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring an earthy flavor that complements the hearty ingredients of the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains or quinoa make for a filling addition to your meal, aligning well with the soup’s theme.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an appealing spread alongside your minestrone.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs can act as a satisfying side dish that absorbs some of the minestrone’s broth wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Winter Minestrone Soup can be simple and rewarding, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Using the wrong beans: Opt for cannellini or butter beans for the best taste. Avoid using dried beans that are old; they may not soften properly.
- Overcooking vegetables: Cook your vegetables just until tender. Overcooked veggies lose their vibrant colors and nutrients.
- Neglecting seasoning: Always taste your soup as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors instead of waiting until the end.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like basil add vital flavor. Don’t skip them or substitute with dried herbs at the last minute.
- Not adding enough liquid: If your soup is too thick, it can become unappetizing. Add more stock or water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Winter Minestrone Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand.
Reheating Winter Minestrone Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Winter Minestrone Soup that you might find helpful.
Can I customize my Winter Minestrone Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini or spinach. You can also adjust the beans based on your preference.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of Winter Minestrone Soup, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
What’s the best way to serve Winter Minestrone Soup?
Serve it warm in bowls with crusty bread on the side. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds an extra touch!
How long does Winter Minestrone Soup last in the fridge?
It lasts about 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This Winter Minestrone Soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free stock and quinoa.
Final Thoughts
Winter Minestrone Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly nights. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!
Winter Minestrone Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Winter Minestrone Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for chilly days. This hearty, nutritious soup is brimming with seasonal winter vegetables and wholesome beans, creating a rich and satisfying meal that warms the soul. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful medley of flavors complemented by fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, Winter Minestrone Soup is sure to become a staple in your winter recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups cooked cannellini or butter beans
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup red onion, diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 medium sweet potato, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Instructions
- If using dry beans, soak overnight or use the quick soak method. Rinse and drain.
- In a large pot, simmer soaked beans in fresh water until tender (about 45 minutes to 1½ hours).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté carrots, celery, red onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme for about 8 minutes.
- Transfer sautéed vegetables into the pot with the beans.
- Add sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes (with juice), and quinoa. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in chopped kale and cook for an additional 5–8 minutes until wilted.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
