DESCRIPTION OF TUSCAN GARDEN MINESTRONE
Our Tuscan Garden Minestrone is a rich, flavorful soup inspired by the classic Olive Garden favourite. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, this vegan delight is not only nourishing but also a comforting choice for any meal. It’s perfect for warming up during cold days or as a satisfying light dinner during the warmer months.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Dinner
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 6
CUISINE
- Italian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Fall, Winter, Casual Dinner Parties
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Vegan, Low Fat, High Fiber, Healthy
DISH TYPE
- Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS FOR TUSCAN GARDEN MINESTRONE
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cut green beans
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can small white beans, drained
- 1/2 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/3 cup small pasta shells
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: Approx. 200 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
PREPARATION FOR TUSCAN GARDEN MINESTRONE
- Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the zucchini, green beans, and carrots, cooking for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
- Garlic and Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, before pouring in the diced tomatoes.
- Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable broth, add both types of beans, and bring to a boil.
- Seasonings: Incorporate the oregano, salt, pepper, basil, and thyme.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Pasta and Spinach: Add the pasta shells and cook until almost tender. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
PREP TIME
- 10 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 30 minutes
TIPS FOR TUSCAN GARDEN MINESTRONE
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether.
- Enhance the soup’s richness by adding a parmesan rind during simmering.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Add: Include chunks of sautéed tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.
- Spice It Up: Add a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR TUSCAN GARDEN MINESTRONE
- Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
This Tuscan Garden Minestrone captures the essence of Italian cooking with its strong flavours and vibrant ingredients, making it a fulfilling choice that aligns with a health-conscious diet.