Nothing beats a comforting bowl of soup, especially when it's packed with flavor and a little bit of spice! This Spicy Minestrone Soup with Pesto and Parmesan is a hearty, vibrant, and satisfying meal that's perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a taste of Italy. I remember the first time I had minestrone in a tiny trattoria in Rome; it was a cold, rainy day, and that soup warmed me right to my soul. I've been chasing that flavor ever since, and this recipe is my humble attempt to recreate that magic. Let's dive in!
This isn't your average minestrone. The addition of red pepper flakes gives it a delightful kick, while the pesto and Parmesan add a burst of fresh, savory flavor. It's also incredibly versatile – feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters (shhh, don't tell them!). Speaking of picky eaters, my nephew used to turn up his nose at anything green, but he gobbled this soup right up. I guess a little spice and cheese can work wonders!
Ready to try? This recipe is easy to follow, even if you're new to cooking. With a few simple steps, you'll have a pot of flavorful, nourishing soup that will warm you from the inside out. I promise, the aroma alone is worth the effort. Don't be scared to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Sometimes, I even add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for an extra zing. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let's make some soup!
Required Equipments
- Large Pot
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Wooden Spoon
- Immersion Blender (optional)
- Bowls for serving
Spicy Minestrone Soup with Pesto and Parmesan: Frequently Asked Questions
Spicy Minestrone Soup with Pesto and Parmesan
This Spicy Minestrone Soup with Pesto and Parmesan is a hearty, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s packed with vegetables and Italian goodness. The addition of red pepper flakes, fresh pesto, and salty Parmesan takes this classic soup to the next level!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: On a cutting board, dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic. This ensures they cook evenly and release their flavors properly.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften. This step builds a flavor base for the soup.
- Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This adds richness and depth to the soup's flavor.
- Pour in Liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Beans and Pasta: Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans and ditalini pasta to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the soup. Feel free to use kale, if you prefer!
- Season: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Blend (Optional): If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend a portion of the soup. Be careful when blending hot liquids. Alternatively, you can remove a cup or two of the soup and blend it in a regular blender before returning it to the pot.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with a dollop of pesto and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of olive oil is always welcome too!
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the warmth and flavors of your spicy minestrone soup.
📝 Notes
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender before serving.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or kale.
- Add a piece of Parmesan rind while simmering for extra flavor (remove before serving).
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 10g
Calcium: 150mg
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