Hearty Minestrone Soup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 yellow squash, diced
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini, small shells)
8 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, and green beans to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the small pasta to the soup and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve your Hearty Minestrone Soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

This wholesome minestrone soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s packed with the goodness of vegetables and beans. Enjoy a bowlful of warmth and flavor!