Classic Minestrone

⏱ 60 mins 🍽 4 serving(s) 🏷 Clear Soup

This classic Italian clear soup is a family favourite, refined over time to be both fresh and light. It combines leeks, carrots, zucchini, green beans and celery, simmered with vegetable stock, tomatoes and herbs. Cannellini beans and macaroni are added for heartiness. Ready in 60 minutes, it serves four and is finished with a garnish of parmesan and parsley, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying brunch.

Classic Minestrone

Ingredients

  • 1 large leek, thinly sliced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup green beans, halved
  • 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 1/4 cups vegetable stock or 6 1/4 cups water
  • 1 (14 ounce) can chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 (14 ounce) can cannellini beans or 1 (14 ounce) can kidney beans
  • 2 ounces macaroni
  • salt and pepper
  • finely grated parmesan cheese (to garnish)
  • fresh parsley (to garnish)

Method

  1. Put the leek, carrots, zucchini, green beans, celery and olive oil into a large saucepan. Heat until the contents sizzle, then cover the pan, reduce the heat and allow the vegetables to sweat for 15 minutes, giving the pan an occasional shake.
  2. Pour in the vegetable stock or water, followed by the chopped tomatoes, fresh herbs and your chosen seasoning.
  3. Allow the mixture to reach a boil, then put the lid back on and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes.
  4. Introduce the canned beans along with their liquid and the macaroni to the pan. Continue to simmer the soup for a further 10 minutes.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the soup while hot, topping each bowl with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition (per serving)

Sodium346300 mg

Recipe details

CategoryClear Soup
AuthorMizEmerilLagasse