Rustic Minestrone Soup with Pasta is a hearty, comforting, and wholesome Italian classic. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, aromatic herbs, and tender pasta, this soup is a complete meal in itself. Its rustic charm comes from its simplicity—using seasonal vegetables and pantry staples, it delivers incredible flavor without fuss.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s endlessly adaptable, colorful, and nutrient-packed. Every spoonful has a variety of textures—soft beans, tender pasta, and crunchy vegetables—all harmonized in a savory broth. It’s a recipe that feels nourishing for the body and soul.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Hearty and healthy: Loaded with vegetables, beans, and pasta.
• Flexible: Can be made with whatever vegetables are on hand.
• Comforting: Warm, flavorful, and perfect for any season.
• Easy to make: One-pot cooking with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
• Course: Main course / Soup
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (14 oz) can cannellini or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

1. Stir in zucchini, green beans, and cabbage.
2. Add diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 3: Add Broth and Beans

1. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
2. Add drained beans and reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

1. Add pasta to the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

1. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle soup into bowls.
3. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added richness.

Recipe Tips

• Vegetable flexibility: Use seasonal vegetables such as spinach, peas, or butternut squash.
• Pasta timing: Add pasta near the end to prevent overcooking and turning mushy.
• Make it vegan: Omit Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
• Depth of flavor: Add a splash of white wine or a dash of balsamic vinegar to enhance the broth.

Variations

1. Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for a heartier soup.
2. Grain Version: Substitute pasta with quinoa, barley, or brown rice for a gluten-free or whole-grain option.
3. Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
4. Creamy Minestrone: Stir in ½ cup cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer version.
5. Herb Variation: Use fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary instead of dried herbs for a fresher flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently on the stovetop. Add extra broth when reheating if needed.
• Tip: If freezing, cook pasta separately and add fresh when serving to avoid mushy noodles.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQs

Q1: Can I make minestrone with other types of pasta?

• Yes, small shapes like shells, macaroni, or orzo work well.

Q2: Can this soup be made vegan?

• Absolutely, just use vegetable broth and omit Parmesan cheese.

Q3: Can I use frozen vegetables?

• Yes, adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re heated through but not overcooked.

Q4: How can I make the soup thicker?

• Puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and stir it back in.

Q5: Can I make this soup in advance?

• Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Cook pasta separately when reheating.

Conclusion

Rustic Minestrone Soup with Pasta is a versatile, wholesome, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any season. Packed with vegetables, beans, and tender pasta, it delivers comfort and nutrition in every bowl. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and deliciously satisfying, this soup is a staple recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. Warm, hearty, and vibrant, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in.