Winter Minestrone Soup

Winter Minestrone Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that captures the essence of winter. This comforting soup is brimming with seasonal vegetables, making it not only delicious but also a nutritious option for chilly days. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, Winter Minestrone Soup is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: This soup combines various winter vegetables, creating a rich and satisfying taste.
• Healthy & Nutritious: With beans, quinoa, and plenty of greens, this recipe offers a wholesome meal full of protein and fiber.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite winter vegetables or grains for a personal touch.
• One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking process with this easy-to-follow recipe that requires minimal cleanup.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Winter Minestrone Soup effectively, having the right tools makes all the difference. Let’s look at what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering your soup evenly while allowing ample space for all the ingredients.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables before adding them to the soup, enhancing their flavors.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficiency during prep time.

Ingredients

This version of Minestrone is made exclusively with vegetables that are at their best in winter. Or should I say packed with them? Seriously, so many flavors in this one you will mark it as your winter favorite. Healthy, comforting, delicious!

• 1½ cups cooked cannellini or butter beans, rinsed and drained (1 15 oz. can if using canned / ¾ cups if using dry)
• 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 (only needed if you don’t cook beans yourself)
• 1 cup celeriac, cubed
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
• ½ cup uncooked quinoa
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• 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 Dried)

If you are using dried beans, soak them overnight in a large amount of water (should be at least two inches above the beans). Alternatively, use a quick soak method by bringing them to boil for three minutes, then removing from heat and letting stand covered for one hour. Drain and rinse.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

Discard the soak water and add eight cups of fresh water for cooking. In a large pot, simmer the beans with a little sea salt and aromatics like onion, garlic, carrot, celery, rosemary, thyme—whatever you have on hand. Cover the pot partially and let it cook for about forty-five minutes to one-and-a-half hours until tender. Discard any aromatics while leaving the cooking liquid and beans in the pot.

Step 3: Use Stock as Base (Optional)

Instead of soaking beans as mentioned above, you can simply use vegetable or chicken stock or water (eight cups) as your soup base along with already cooked or canned beans.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Add carrots, celery, red onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Sauté for about eight minutes until fragrant. Transfer these vegetables into your bean cooking liquid or stock together with the cooked beans.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add celeriac cubes, sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes with juice, and uncooked quinoa to your pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Cook for approximately twenty minutes while stirring occasionally. Remove bay leaves once done. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Finish with Greens

Stir in chopped kale and let it cook for five to eight minutes until wilted. If your soup appears too thick at this point, add more water as needed. Just before serving, mix in finely chopped basil.

Serve in bowls topped with some grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Winter Minestrone Soup!

How to Serve Winter Minestrone Soup

Serving Winter Minestrone Soup can enhance its comforting qualities and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious soup that will warm you up during the colder months.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with crusty bread for dipping. Sourdough or ciabatta works especially well and adds a rustic touch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This adds vibrant color and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing balances the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your minestrone in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This makes for an impressive presentation and is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.

With Cheese Toasties

• Accompany your soup with cheese toasties made from your favorite bread and cheese. The melted cheese adds an extra layer of comfort to your meal.

How to Perfect Winter Minestrone Soup

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Winter Minestrone Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Opt for seasonal vegetables, as they will be at their peak flavor and nutrition during winter.
• 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 and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. Don’t hesitate to add more herbs for extra flavor.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer for longer if possible. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Leftovers Correctly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day!
• Add More Greens: Feel free to toss in additional greens like spinach or Swiss chard for added nutrition when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Winter Minestrone Soup

Pairing side dishes with Winter Minestrone Soup can create a more complete meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soup’s warmth.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add flavor and nutrients, making them a fantastic accompaniment.
3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with citrus dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty minestrone.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These can be filled with grains, veggies, and spices, making them a nutritious side that pairs well with the soup.
5. Savory Muffins
   Herb-infused muffins or cornbread can add a delightful twist and complement the flavors of minestrone nicely.
6. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a rich side that’s both filling and satisfying next to the soup.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Simple baked sweet potatoes provide sweetness that balances out the savory components of the minestrone.
8. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the soup while adding crunch and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Winter Minestrone Soup experience and ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh vegetables make all the difference. Always choose seasonal and fresh produce for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the beans: If you’re cooking dried beans, monitor them closely. Overcooked beans can become mushy, ruining your soup’s texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: A lack of salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the aromatics: Aromatics like garlic and onions add depth to your soup. Don’t skip them; sauté for full flavor development.
• Not adjusting thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, add extra vegetable or chicken stock gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Winter Minestrone Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Winter Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Pour soup into an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Winter Minestrone Soup:

Can I use different beans in my Winter Minestrone Soup?

Yes! You can substitute other beans like kidney or black beans based on your preference.

Is this Winter Minestrone Soup vegan?

You can make it vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

How can I customize my Winter Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to add any favorite winter vegetables like butternut squash or parsnips for added flavor and nutrition.

What herbs work well in Winter Minestrone Soup?

Besides thyme, consider adding rosemary or parsley for extra aromatic flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Winter Minestrone Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutritious vegetables perfect for chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or herbs. Try making this dish today!

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Winter Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Warm up this winter with our hearty Winter Minestrone Soup, a delightful blend of seasonal vegetables that brings comfort and nourishment to chilly days. This nutritious dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a wholesome meal full of protein and fiber from beans, quinoa, and greens. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, you can easily customize it with your favorite winter vegetables. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies cooking and cleanup—making it ideal for meal prep! Enjoy the rich taste of this vibrant soup that promises to become a new winter favorite.

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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, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup red onion, diced
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup celeriac, cubed
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• ½ cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups chopped fresh kale
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper

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Instructions

1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight or use a quick soak method. Drain and rinse.
2. In a large pot, simmer soaked beans in fresh water or stock until tender; about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté carrots, celery, red onion, garlic until fragrant (about 8 minutes).
4. Transfer sautéed vegetables into the pot with cooked beans.
5. Add celeriac, sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes, uncooked quinoa; bring to a boil then simmer for about 20 minutes.
6. Stir in kale until wilted; season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg