Best Minestrone Soup Recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow

I always turn to this recipe when my family needs a bowl of vibrant comfort on a chilly evening. The aroma of simmering herbs and fresh tomatoes instantly fills our kitchen, promising a wholesome and deeply satisfying meal. This best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow is my go-to for an easy dinner idea that’s both hearty and incredibly healthy, perfect for busy weeknights when I want something nourishing without a fuss. It’s a fantastic way to get everyone excited about eating their veggies.

What You’ll Need for the Best Minestrone Soup Recipe

Here are the core ingredients for crafting a truly wonderful pot of the best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow:

• 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml): For sautéing and building flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 150g): The sweet base of your soup.
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 120g): Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 80g): Essential aromatic for classic soup depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 9g): A punch of savory warmth.
• 6 cups vegetable broth (1.4 liters): The foundational liquid; I often use low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (411g): For tangy brightness and a lovely ‘tomato’ element (fire-roasted if you want extra depth!).
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (425g): Adds protein and creaminess (or use kidney beans for a different texture).
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni, 100g): To make it hearty and satisfying (whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works perfectly too).
• 1 medium zucchini, diced (about 200g): A fresh, green ‘rainbow’ touch that softens beautifully.
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (12g): The aromatic ‘basil’ and key ‘rainbow’ flavor; don’t skip this!
• Salt and black pepper to taste: To elevate all the natural flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): For a savory, umami finish.

For a cleaner taste, consider using organic ingredients and low-sodium broth. When basil isn’t in season, I sometimes rely on a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, though fresh is always best for that true Tomato Basil Rainbow experience.

Step-by-Step Method Made Simple

Here’s how to create this delicious best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow with approximate timings:

1. Sauté Aromatics (5 minutes): Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and slightly translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The vegetables will soften and sweeten.
2. Build the Base (15-20 minutes): Pour in vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to fully soften and the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a wonderful aroma.
3. Add Hearty Elements (8-10 minutes): Stir in the rinsed cannellini beans and the small pasta. Cook, uncovered, according to the pasta package directions until it’s al dente (usually 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite, absorbing some of that rich broth. If the soup looks too thick at this stage, splash in an extra ¼ to ½ cup of vegetable broth. This is a great family-friendly tweak to ensure everyone gets enough broth.
4. Finish with Freshness (5 minutes): Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the diced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), and fresh chopped basil. Season generously with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go. Let it sit for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld and the zucchini to slightly soften but retain its fresh color. The soup will smell incredibly fresh and vibrant, a true Tomato Basil Rainbow feast for the senses.

Faster method: To save time on busy weeknights, I’ve often used pre-chopped mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery mix) from the grocery store. This shortcut doesn’t compromise the delicious flavor of the best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow.

Healthier twist: For an extra boost of greens, add a handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale along with the zucchini. This makes for an even more nutrient-dense, healthy meal.

Perfect Occasions and Serving Inspiration

The best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow fits many meal scenarios.

• Serve for: Weeknights, light lunches, or comforting Sunday dinners.
• Pair with: Crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
• Storage & Reheating: Fridge 3-4 days. Freeze without pasta for 3 months; add fresh when reheating.

Nutrition & Everyday Wellness Benefits

This best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow offers significant health benefits.

• Fiber-rich from veggies and beans.
• Vitamins for a healthy meal.
• High-protein, satisfying.
• Heart-healthy.
• Easily made gluten-free.

Why This Best Minestrone Soup Recipe Works for You

This best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow simplifies healthy family meals.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in 45 minutes.
• Diet-Friendly: Customizable.
• Comforting: A hearty meal.

Smart Upgrades and Adjustments

Elevate your best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow with these ideas.

• Technique Tips: Deglaze with broth. Toast dry pasta for nuttier flavor.
• Flavor Variations: Try smoked paprika or balsamic vinegar. Use different beans.
• Diet Adaptations: Low-carb (skip pasta). Vegan (vegan broth).

Reader Q&A

Can I prepare the best minestrone soup recipe ahead of time?

Yes, chop vegetables. Cook soup without pasta; add fresh when reheating portions.

Is the best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s an easy meal prep choice. Store cooked pasta separately to prevent mushiness.

What’s the best way to store my best minestrone soup recipe?

Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days. Freeze without pasta for up to 3 months. Reheat gently.

Are there healthier substitutes for this recipe?

Yes, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (1 cup regular to 1 cup whole wheat). Low-sodium broth and extra leafy greens.

Can I add meat to this minestrone soup?

Certainly! Ground turkey or shredded chicken are delicious additions. Add cooked meat with the beans for protein.

Why is my minestrone soup bland?

Seasoning is crucial. Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and fresh basil. I always add a final squeeze of lemon juice; it brightens the flavor of my best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow.

Conclusion

This best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow is your go-to for a comforting, healthy, easy meal. We always enjoy it! Save this vibrant soup recipe on Pinterest for quick meals and healthy eating.

best minestrone soup recipe With Tomato Basil Rainbow

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• Author: Madison Clarke
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This easy and hearty minestrone soup recipe features a vibrant mix of fresh tomatoes, basil, and a rainbow of vegetables, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, small shells, or elbow macaroni)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 0.5 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and slightly translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Base: Pour in vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to fully soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Add Hearty Elements: Stir in the rinsed cannellini beans and the small pasta. Cook, uncovered, according to the pasta package directions until it is al dente (usually 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup looks too thick, splash in an extra 0.25 to 0.5 cup of vegetable broth.
4. Finish with Freshness: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the diced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), and fresh chopped basil. Season generously with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go. Let it sit for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld and the zucchini to slightly soften but retain its fresh color.

Notes

For a cleaner taste, consider using organic ingredients and low-sodium broth. Save time by using pre-chopped mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery mix). For an extra boost of greens, add a handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale along with the zucchini. If fresh basil is not in season, use 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, though fresh is always best. Adjust broth consistency as pasta cooks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 34 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360 g)
• Calories: 280 calories
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 9 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg