Ingredients

1/4 cup pine nuts or 1/4 cup walnuts
2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves
2 -3 garlic cloves
1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
salt & freshly ground black pepper , to taste
1 can white beans
salt , to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 yellow onions , diced
1/2 cup pancetta ( optional )
3 carrots , peeled , halved lengthwise , if large , and thinly sliced
2 celery ribs , diced
3/4 lb tomatoes , peeled , seeded and diced
5 -6 cups water or 5 -6 cups chicken broth
4 small new potatoes , unpeeled , diced
2 zucchini , halved lengthwise and sliced
1/4 lb green beans , trimmed and cut into 1-inch lengths
2 cups swiss chard ( optional )
1/4 lb macaroni
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
fresh ground pepper , to taste
1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins date back to ancient Rome, where it was made using whatever vegetables and grains were available in the region. Today, Minestrone is a staple in Italian cuisine and has inspired many variations around the world. This recipe from Williams Sonoma uses a variety of fresh vegetables, including zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and green beans, as well as protein-rich beans like white beans. The soup is seasoned with a blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and basil, giving it a delicious savory flavor that is sure to please any palate. It can be served as a meal on its own or alongside some crusty bread and a salad.

Instructions

1.In a food processor, pulse the pine nuts, basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup of the olive oil until smooth.
2.Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
3.Rinse and drain the beans and sprinkle with salt.
4.In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
5.Add the onions and pancetta (if using) and cook until the onions are tender and the pancetta is crisp.
6.Add the carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes.
7.Add the tomatoes and cook for another 10 minutes.
8.Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
9.Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
10.Meanwhile, cook the potatoes in a separate pot until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
11.Add the zucchini, green beans, and Swiss chard (if using) to the soup and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes.
12.Add the cooked potatoes and macaroni to the soup.
13.Serve the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
14.

PROS

Minestrone soup is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for cool fall and winter days.

This recipe is loaded with seasonal vegetables and protein-rich beans.

It can be easily customized based on your preferences and dietary restrictions.

CONS

The recipe can be time-consuming to make due to the number of ingredients and steps involved.

It is also a relatively high-carbohydrate meal due to the beans and macaroni.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Minestrone soup is a healthy and nutrient-dense meal that is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The vegetables in this soup provide important antioxidants that support immune function and protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help promote feelings of fullness and satiety.
They also regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels.

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