Corrigan’s Minestrone A Rich, Rustic, and Comforting Italian Soup
Corrigan’s Minestrone is a rustic Italian-inspired soup made with vegetables, beans, tomatoes, and herbs.It is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.The soup combines simple pantry staples with fresh produce for rich homestyle flavor.Its texture is satisfying, especially with the addition of pasta or rice.This dish is versatile, nourishing, and ideal for meal prep or family gatherings.It is a timeless comfort food recipe that celebrates the beauty of simple cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or spinach
- 1 can (400 grams) chopped tomatoes
- 1 can (1 1/2 cups) cannellini beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup small pasta such as ditalini or elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and potato, and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the zucchini, green beans, and cabbage or spinach.
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes and broth, then stir well.
- Add the beans, oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Add the pasta and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Minestrone is naturally flexible and welcomes seasonal vegetables.
- You can use spinach instead of cabbage for a softer texture.
- Small pasta shapes work best in this soup.
- Vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian and light.
- Beans add protein, texture, and richness.
- The soup thickens as it sits, especially after the pasta absorbs liquid.
- Parmesan adds savory depth when used as a garnish.
- Leftovers often taste even better the next day.