Minestrone soup has several potential health benefits, including:
- Vegetable-rich: Minestrone is typically made with a variety of vegetables, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Low in fat and calories: Made with mostly vegetables and beans, minestrone is a low-fat and low-calorie soup option.
- Heart-healthy: The fiber and antioxidants in vegetables may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Supports digestion: Vegetables and beans in minestrone are rich in fiber, which helps support digestive health and prevent constipation.
- Boosts immunity: Some of the ingredients in minestrone, such as garlic and onions, have antimicrobial properties and may help boost the immune system.
- Hydrating: Minestrone is a liquid-based soup, providing hydration for the body.
- Satisfying: Minestrone is filling and can help keep you full for longer, making it a good choice for those watching their weight.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh Parmesan cheese and crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the thyme and basil and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, white beans, and kidney beans.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread. Enjoy!
