Minestrone – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Italian Servings: Serves 6
Italy Region / Locale: Italian Servings: Serves 6Minestrone is a hearty, traditional Italian soup that encapsulates the essence of Italian comfort food. Originating centuries ago in the kitchens of Italy, this versatile dish was borne out of the necessity to make the most of seasonal vegetables and leftovers. Each region of Italy has its own version, reflecting the local produce and culinary traditions. A good minestrone is thick with a melange of vegetables, beans, and pasta or rice, offering a comforting and nutritious meal that delights the senses with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- onion – 1 large, chopped
- carrot – 2 medium, diced
- celery stalks – 2, diced
- garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- zucchini – 1 medium, chopped
- potato – 1 large, peeled and diced
- canned diced tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz / 400 g)
- vegetable broth – 6 cups / 1.5 liters
- cannellini beans – 1 can (15 oz / 425 g), drained and rinsed
- baby spinach – 2 cups packed
- dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- dried basil – 1 teaspoon
- bay leaf – 1
- small pasta (such as ditalini) – 1 cup / 140 g
- salt and pepper – to taste
- fresh parsley – for garnish, chopped
- grated Parmesan cheese – for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add zucchini, potato, and canned tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add cannellini beans, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add baby spinach and pasta. Cook for another 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
- Remove bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Substitutions
- cannellini beans -> kidney beans
- baby spinach -> kale
- vegetable broth -> chicken broth
- ditalini pasta -> orzo
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a Parmesan rind during simmering for deeper flavor.
- Include pancetta or bacon for a non-vegetarian version.
- Use seasonal vegetables for variety and freshness.
- Incorporate a splash of red wine for depth.
- Increase herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional aromatic complexity.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
