Here’s another warm and comforting soup to enjoy throughout these winter months! It’s hearty, satisfying Minestrone Soup, which keeps you full for longer. This classic Italian vegetable soup is with a rich tomato base and pasta. It’s low in calories and packed with fibre and vitamin C!
There is no set recipe for minestrone, since it is usually made from whatever vegetables are in season. It can be vegetarian, contain meat, made vegan or gluten-free if desired.
This recipe is very versatile so if you do not have one or more of the ingredients, feel free to use any fresh vegetables you have on hand. For example, you can also use fresh green beans or zucchini. And, if you like a little spice, add a teaspoon of chili flakes.
Small pasta works best for easier eating, and they don’t bloat as much as large pasta when leftovers are left in the broth. If making this at home for little ones, macaroni or tiny star pasta would be great choices.
Ingredients
- 3 rashers of bacon, rind removed, roughly chopped
- 1 brown onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 1 potato, peeled and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1L (4 cups) liquid beef stock
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small shell pasta
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley OR basil
- Crusty bread to serve (optional)
Method
- Place the bacon, onion, carrots, celery, potato, and garlic in a large saucepan and stir to combine. Cook over high heat, uncovered, stirring often, for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the beef stock, tomatoes and red kidney beans to the pan, cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Increase heat to high. Add pasta and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, following packet directions or until pasta is al dente.
- Ladle into serving bowls and sprinkle with your choice of herb. Serve immediately.
From The Mouths Of Babes
“I like the flavour”
“I love pasta!”
“The beans are my favourite”
That’s all from Miss Shanny in the Kitchen
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