Hearty soup with vegetables, legumes and pasta

Minestrone is one of the most famous soups in Italian cuisine. It combines fresh vegetables, legumes, herbs, and pasta into an aromatic and satisfying meal.

Minestrone is prepared differently depending on the region and season – that's precisely what makes it so versatile. In this version , colorful beans, vegetables, and small pasta create a particularly hearty and filling soup that's perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients (for approx. 4–6 people)

300g mixed colorful legumes
(e.g. kidney beans, white beans, peas)

2 tablespoons wheat kernels

2 tbsp brown rice

1.5 liters of water for soaking

4 tablespoons olive oil

1 large red onion

1 clove of garlic

1 large carrot

1 large tomato

1 liter of vegetable broth

150 g small pasta (e.g. shell pasta)

1 sprig of thyme

1 sprig of oregano

2 tablespoons of parsley (fresh or frozen)

salt and pepper

Optional for serving:
freshly grated Parmesan cheese and white bread

preparation

1. Prepare the legumes

Soak the legumes, wheat kernels and brown rice overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water.

The next day, drain the soaking water and boil the mixture in fresh water for about 40–60 minutes , until soft.

Then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the vegetables

Peel and finely dice the onion.

Finely chop or press the garlic.

Wash the carrot and tomato and cut them into small cubes.

3. Brown the soup base

Heat olive oil in a large pot or cocotte.

Sauté the onion and garlic in it over medium heat until translucent .

Add the carrot and tomato and fry everything for about 3-4 minutes .

4. Cook the soup

Add the precooked legume and grain mixture to the pot.

Pour in vegetable broth and stir everything well.

Let the soup simmer gently for about 10 minutes .

5. Add pasta and herbs

Add the noodles to the soup and cook for about 8-10 minutes , until tender.

Finely chop thyme, oregano and parsley and add just before serving.

Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve the minestrone hot.

Optionally enjoy with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crusty white bread .