Name: Jamie's Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, chopped; 2 pieces onions, chopped; 2 cups chopped celery; 5 pieces carrots, sliced; 4 cups tomato sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 0.5 cup red wine (Optional); 3 pieces zucchinis, quartered and sliced; 2 cups baby spinach, rinsed; 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans (cut into 1 ½-inch pieces); 1 cup canned kidney beans (drained); 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; salt and pepper to taste; 0.5 cup shell pasta; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for topping; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

Introduction to Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Why Choose Homemade Minestrone Soup?

If you’re seeking a delightful blend of flavors and a hearty dose of vegetables, you’ve come to the right place with Jamie's Minestrone Soup. Many of us have tried pre-packaged soups, only to be underwhelmed by their excessive sodium and limited veggie profiles. By making your own, you control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, nutritious meal the entire family can enjoy.

This recipe is inspired by the vegetable-rich minestrone from Sheepherder's Inn in Sacramento, California, and it reflects a commitment to wholesome ingredients. You’ll find plenty of vibrant greens, like spinach and zucchini, paired with protein-rich beans and a savory broth. Plus, making this soup at home allows you to personalize it. Want to add your favorite veggies? Go for it!

Research backs up the benefits of cooking at home, demonstrating that home-cooked meals tend to have lower calories and higher nutrient content than their processed counterparts. So, whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or enjoying a simple weeknight dinner, Jamie's Minestrone Soup is a perfect choice. Ready to dive in? Let’s start cooking!

Ingredients for Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Essential Ingredients for a Delicious Soup

Creating Jamie's Minestrone Soup is really about embracing a mix of fresh, vibrant ingredients that guarantee a fulfilling and wholesome meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 onions, chopped
2 cups chopped celery
5 carrots, sliced
4 cups tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
3 zucchinis, quartered and sliced
2 cups baby spinach, rinsed
2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
1 cup canned kidney beans, drained
½ cup shell pasta
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients combine to create a rich và flavorful broth filled with hearty vegetables.

Optional Ingredients to Elevate Your Flavor

For those moments when you want to take your soup to the next level, consider adding:

½ cup turkey bacon for a smoky flavor
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme for an aromatic kick
A splash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors

Feel free to experiment with your soup, making it uniquely yours! Those touches can add depth and personality that truly elevate Jamie's Minestrone Soup.

Preparing Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Gather Your Fresh Ingredients

The heart of any great soup lies in its ingredients! For Jamie’s Minestrone Soup, you'll want to start with a vibrant array of fresh vegetables. Head to your local farmer's market or grocery store and gather:

3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped
2 onions, chopped
2 cups chopped celery
5 carrots, sliced
4 cups tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
3 zucchinis, quartered and sliced
2 cups baby spinach, rinsed
2 cups fresh or frozen green beans
1 cup canned kidney beans, drained
Fresh herbs: 2 tablespoons basil and 1 tablespoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup shell pasta
Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Optional: another drizzle of olive oil for serving

Having fresh ingredients on hand is essential, as they'll enhance the flavor and nutrition of your minestrone.

Sautéing the Aromatics

With your ingredients lined up, it’s time to cook! In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped garlic and let it sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. This step is crucial as it infuses the oil with a delectable flavor. Next, add the onions and cook until they're translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Imagine the comforting scent wafting through your kitchen—pure magic!

Building the Flavor Base

Now, let’s elevate those flavors! Add the chopped celery and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté them for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This step is all about building the base that will give your Jamie’s Minestrone Soup its delicious depth.

Adding the Vegetables

Once your aroma is tantalizing, it’s time to pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and water. Stir everything together before bringing it to a boil. While the soup is bubbling, add in the zucchinis, spinach, green beans, and kidney beans. Enhance it further with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow this blend to simmer gently for about 30 to 40 minutes, letting all the flavors meld beautifully.

Cooking the Pasta

While your soup is simmering, prepare the shell pasta in a separate medium saucepan. Fill it with water and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta until it’s tender yet firm to the bite, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside—this will give your soup that comforting touch.

Combining Everything Together

Once everything is ready, it's the moment of truth! Place a generous amount of cooked shell pasta into individual serving bowls. Ladle the rich soup over the pasta, ensuring you get a hearty mix of vegetables and beans in each bowl.

Final Touches and Serving

To finish, sprinkle the soup with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra layer of flavor, and drizzle a touch of olive oil on top. This final step really brings Jamie’s Minestrone Soup to life! Serve it alongside crusty bread or a crisp salad, and you have a wholesome dinner that everyone will love.

For more soup inspiration, check out additional hearty recipes here. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Variations on Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Vegetarian Alternatives

If you're looking for a wholesome vegetarian twist on Jamie's Minestrone Soup, consider leveraging a variety of vegetables or even adding lentils for extra protein. You might mix in butternut squash or replace shell pasta with a gluten-free option. Chickpeas can also be a delightful addition, enhancing the soup's texture and nutritional profile. Don't forget to experiment with different herbs like thyme or fresh parsley for unique flavors.

Protein Boosts with Chicken Ham or Turkey Bacon

For those who enjoy a bit of meat in their soup, try adding chicken ham or turkey bacon for a heartier bowl. These options enrich the flavor without compromising the soup’s integrity. Simply sauté in the pot before adding the vegetables to let those savory notes develop. Want an even bolder taste? Consider mixing in shredded rotisserie chicken for a satisfying meal that keeps you coming back for more.

For more hearty options, check out our guide on how to incorporate lean proteins into soups.

Cooking Tips for Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

To elevate Jamie's Minestrone Soup, consider sautéing a few slices of Turkey Bacon before adding the veggies. This will introduce a smoky richness that complements the soup beautifully. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano should be added at the end for an aromatic finish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices such as red pepper flakes for a kick! A splash of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors, making each spoonful delightful.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Leftovers are perfect for busy weeknight meals. Store Jamie's Minestrone Soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Just remember to leave out the pasta when storing—cook it fresh when you reheat the soup to maintain its texture. Enjoy your flavorful creations!

Serving Suggestions for Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Best Accompaniments

When enjoying Jamie’s Minestrone Soup, you can elevate your meal experience with tasty accompaniments. Fresh, crusty sourdough or whole-grain bread is perfect for dipping into the savory broth. A simple side salad, like a classic Caesar or a vibrant Mediterranean mix, complements the richness of the soup beautifully. For an extra kick, consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Creative Serving Ideas

Make your presentation as delightful as the flavor! Serve Jamie's Minestrone Soup in deep bowls lined with fresh basil leaves. Consider adding a dollop of pesto on top for a gourmet touch. If you're hosting a gathering, create a soup bar where guests can customize their servings with toppings like grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, or croutons.

For more tasty bread pairings, check out this bread recipe to make from scratch. Enjoy experimenting!

Time Details for Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Preparation Time

Get ready to dive into a world of flavors with a quick and straightforward prep session! It takes about 35 minutes to chop, measure, and gather all your ingredients for Jamie’s Minestrone Soup. A little organization goes a long way!

Cooking Time

After the prep is done, let the magic begin! The cooking process will take about 45 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will fill with delightful aromas as the soup simmers to perfection.

Total Time

In just 1 hour and 20 minutes, you will transform fresh vegetables and delightful herbs into a comforting bowl of Jamie’s Minestrone Soup. Gather your friends or family around to enjoy this delicious meal that serves 8!

For more tips on meal prep and cooking, check out The Kitchn for some great resources!

Nutritional Information for Jamie's Minestrone Soup

Calories

A hearty serving of Jamie's Minestrone Soup packs around 194 calories. It's a light yet satisfying option, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort without overindulgence.

Protein

This delightful soup offers about 7 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the wholesome mix of kidney beans and chicken broth. It's an excellent way to add a little protein boost to your meal!

Sodium

With 955 milligrams of sodium per serving, this dish provides a savory flavor profile without excessive salt. You can always adjust seasonings to better suit your dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious bowl of soup!

For more details on nutritious ingredients, check out the American Heart Association's tips on sodium intake.

FAQs about Jamie's Minestrone Soup

How can I make my minestrone soup extra hearty?

To give Jamie's Minestrone Soup an extra boost of heartiness, consider adding protein-packed ingredients like chicken, turkey bacon, or even some lentils. You can also increase the amount of pasta or toss in some quinoa, which will enhance the texture and keep you feeling full longer.

What’s the best way to store minestrone soup?

To keep your minestrone soup fresh, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to leave out the pasta before freezing, as it can become mushy when reheated. You can cook fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy your soup again.

Can I use different vegetables in my soup?

Absolutely! One of the joys of making Jamie's Minestrone Soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or squash. The great thing about this recipe is that you can customize it to your taste and savor the bounties of your local produce!

Conclusion on Jamie's Minestrone Soup

In summary, Jamie’s Minestrone Soup is a delightful, wholesome dish that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables and hearty flavors, this soup not only nourishes but also warms the soul. Try it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal! Enjoy the comfort and joy it brings.