Pot Minestrone Soup: 7 Hearty Ingredients for Comfort

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Pot Minestrone Soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that warms the soul, especially on chilly days. This hearty soup is packed with vibrant vegetables, nourishing beans, and comforting pasta, making it a staple in many homes. As a quick and easy recipe, it can be prepared in less than an hour using an Instant Pot, bringing the rich flavors of traditional Italian cooking right to your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious homemade minestrone soup in a pot.

Why You’ll Love This Pot Minestrone Soup

This minestrone soup recipe offers several benefits that make it a must-try:

Quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
Loaded with vegetables, it’s a great way to meet your daily intake.
Rich in protein from beans, ideal for a healthy diet.
Customizable to suit various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan pot minestrone soup recipes.
Great for meal prep or batch cooking, ensuring you have nutritious meals ready.
Perfectly pairs with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal.
This soup also showcases the essence of traditional Italian cuisine.

Ingredients for Pot Minestrone Soup

Gather these items:

1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 sticks celery, chopped
3 medium carrots, peeled & sliced
1 small zucchini, chopped
1 cup fresh green beans, chopped
1 (28 fluid ounce) can crushed tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth
1 (14 fluid ounce) can red kidney beans, drained
1 (14 fluid ounce) can white kidney (cannellini) beans, drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, torn, to taste
Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste

How to Make Pot Minestrone Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Chop all vegetables and mince the garlic to have them ready for cooking.
Step 2: Turn on the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil, butter, and chopped onion. Cook for about 4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
Step 4: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Then, add celery, carrots, zucchini, green beans, kidney beans, white kidney beans, uncooked elbow macaroni, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to mix all ingredients and prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
Step 5: Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to ‘sealing’. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. It will take approximately 15 minutes to come to pressure.
Step 6: Once cooking is complete, perform a quick pressure release by moving the valve to venting carefully.
Step 7: Open the pot, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in torn fresh basil. Serve hot with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pot Minestrone Soup

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to chop vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.
Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables for variety.
For a healthier option, use whole-grain pasta or skip the pasta altogether for a lower carb soup.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Minestrone Soup

This one-pot minestrone soup is versatile and can be served with:

Crusty bread for dipping.
A fresh salad to balance the meal.
Garnished with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Pot Minestrone Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for quick reheating. This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Minestrone Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Pot Minestrone Soup?

The secret is to balance the flavors of fresh vegetables, good quality broth, and pasta. Using a variety of vegetables enhances the taste and nutrition of the soup, making it a comforting meal. A good balance of spices like Italian seasoning also plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor.

Can I make Pot Minestrone Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup a day or two in advance. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and reheat it thoroughly before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Minestrone Soup?

Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy. Make sure to follow the cooking times closely and consider adding the pasta a minute or two later if you prefer it al dente. Also, adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving.

Variations of Pot Minestrone Soup You Can Try

Here are some variations you can explore:

For a vegan pot minestrone soup recipe, skip the butter and use vegetable broth.
Add leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Try different types of beans or pasta to customize your soup.

Pot Minestrone Soup: 7 Hearty Ingredients for Comfort - Pot Minestrone Soup - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or try making Caramel Apple Bread for a sweet treat!

Pot Minestrone Soup: 7 Hearty Ingredients for Comfort - Pot Minestrone Soup - additional detail

For more tips on meal prep, visit our about page or learn how to make Salted Caramel Cookies for dessert!