Winter Minestrone Soup

Winter Minestrone Soup is a hearty and vibrant dish that captures the essence of winter’s flavors. Packed with seasonal vegetables, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family. The combination of beans, quinoa, and fresh greens makes it not only comforting but also nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, Winter Minestrone Soup will surely become your go-to recipe during chilly months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Variety: The mix of root vegetables and beans creates a rich, satisfying taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this soup supports your health during winter.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful dish.
• Versatile Options: Customize it by adding your favorite winter vegetables or herbs for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it an excellent option for meal planning or last-minute dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Winter Minestrone Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without risk of overflow.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the soup.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safe and efficient chopping of ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Beans

• 1½ cups cooked cannellini or butter beans, rinsed and drained (1 15 oz. can if using canned / ¾ cups if using dry)

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup red onion, diced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock or water

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup celeriac, cubed
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 (14½-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
• ½ cup uncooked quinoa
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 cups chopped fresh kale, thick ribs removed
• 3 tbsp finely chopped basil
• 2 oz (60g) Parmesan, grated (omit for vegan)

How to Make Winter Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Beans (if using dry)

1. Soak the beans overnight in a large amount of water (at least 2 inches above the beans) or use a quick soak method: bring to boiling point, boil for 3 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and let stand for about an hour. Drain and rinse.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

1. Discard the soak water, then add 8 cups of fresh water for cooking. In a large pot, simmer the beans with salt and aromatics like onion, garlic, carrot, celery, rosemary, and thyme. Cover partially with a lid. Cook for about 45 minutes to 1½ hours until tender. Discard aromatics while keeping beans in cooking liquid.

Step 3: Use Stock Instead (if needed)

1. Alternatively, use vegetable or chicken stock as a soup base instead of bean cooking liquid along with already cooked or canned beans.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
2. Add carrots, celery, red onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme; cook for about 8 minutes until softened.
3. Transfer sautéed vegetables into the pot with bean cooking liquid or stock along with cooked beans.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Add celeriac cubes, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (with juice), and quinoa into the pot.
2. Bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer; cook for about 20 minutes.
3. Remove bay leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Add Greens

1. Stir in chopped kale; cook for an additional 5-8 minutes until wilted.
2. Add more water if necessary for desired consistency.
3. Mix in chopped basil just before serving; serve in bowls topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your nourishing bowl of Winter Minestrone Soup!

How to Serve Winter Minestrone Soup

Serving Winter Minestrone Soup is not just about the soup itself; it’s an opportunity to enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up those delicious flavors.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and added freshness. It elevates the presentation and flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. It adds crunch and freshness to the meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your minestrone in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This makes for an impressive presentation and eliminates the need for extra dishes!

Accompanied by Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or a vegan cheese alternative on the side for those who want to add a cheesy touch to their soup.

With a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving can enhance the flavors and add richness.

How to Perfect Winter Minestrone Soup

Perfecting your Winter Minestrone Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal bowl of comfort.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables will provide better flavor and nutrition than frozen or canned options.
• Cook beans properly: If using dried beans, ensure they are cooked until tender for the best texture in your soup.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
• Add greens last: Stir in kale or other greens towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for extra depth of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 15–20 minutes after cooking can enhance its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Winter Minestrone Soup

Winter Minestrone Soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its hearty flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up every drop of your flavorful soup.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness that goes well with minestrone.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or grains make for a filling side that complements the soup’s heartiness.

5. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a rich, comforting addition next to your minestrone.

6. Herb Focaccia
   This flavorful bread is perfect for dipping into your delicious soup, adding an aromatic touch to each bite.

7. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the warmth of the soup nicely.

8. Savory Scones
   Scones infused with herbs offer a delightful and unique side option that pairs wonderfully with winter soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Winter Minestrone Soup, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can result in a bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust your seasonings to enhance the flavors.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender texture while maintaining some crunch by adding them at the right time during cooking.

• Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting to use aromatics like garlic and onion can diminish the soup’s flavor. Always sauté these ingredients first to create a flavorful base.

• Using low-quality stock: Poor quality stock can lead to an unappealing taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought vegetable or chicken stock for better flavor.

• Ignoring the cooking time for beans: If using dried beans, not soaking or cooking them properly can result in hard beans in your soup. Make sure to soak and cook them until they are tender before adding them to the mix.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Winter Minestrone Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Winter Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Winter Minestrone Soup that might help you while preparing this delightful dish.

Can I make Winter Minestrone Soup vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and ensure that any stock used is plant-based.

What vegetables work best in Winter Minestrone Soup?

Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and celeriac are great additions. You can also include winter greens like kale or spinach.

How do I customize my Winter Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to add different beans or grains like barley or farro for variety. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables based on your preference!

What is the best way to serve Winter Minestrone Soup?

Serve it hot with crusty bread on the side or topped with fresh herbs for extra flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Winter Minestrone Soup?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 60 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal option!

Final Thoughts

Winter Minestrone Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutritious ingredients. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy warming up with a bowl of deliciousness this winter!

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Winter Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm up this winter with our hearty Winter Minestrone Soup, a comforting and nutritious dish that showcases the best of seasonal vegetables. This vibrant soup is filled with delicious beans, quinoa, and fresh greens, making it perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with loved ones. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this minestrone will quickly become a favorite in your winter recipe repertoire. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and great for meal prep, ensuring you have a healthy option ready whenever you need it.

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Ingredients

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• 1½ cups cooked cannellini or butter beans
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup red onion, diced
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup celeriac, cubed
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14½ ounces) with juice
• ½ cup uncooked quinoa
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped fresh kale, thick ribs removed
• 3 tbsp finely chopped basil

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Instructions

1. If using dry beans, soak overnight or use a quick soak method. Cook beans until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme for about 8 minutes.
3. Add soaked beans and stock; incorporate celeriac cubes, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and quinoa.
4. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stir in chopped kale; cook for an additional 5–8 minutes until wilted. Mix in basil before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1½ cups (360g)
• Calories: 215
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg