Classic Italian soup with seasonal vegetables, pasta, and beans in a rich tomato broth. Vegetarian and hearty.
# Required Ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 2 carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 1 cup green beans, chopped
08 - 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
→ Base and Seasonings
09 - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
10 - 6 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1 bay leaf
15 - Salt and pepper to taste
→ Pasta and Beans
16 - 3/4 cup small pasta such as ditalini or elbow
17 - 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
18 - 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
→ Garnishes
19 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, optional
20 - Chopped fresh parsley, optional
21 - Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling, optional
# Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in minced garlic, diced zucchini, and chopped green beans; cook for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant.
03 - Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
04 - Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
05 - Stir in pasta and both types of drained beans. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until pasta reaches al dente texture.
06 - Add spinach or kale and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
07 - Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed for desired flavor balance.
08 - Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired.
