Ina Garten Summer Minestrone Soup Recipe

This Ina Garten Summer Minestrone Soup Recipe is light and flavorful, made with fresh vegetables and tender pasta in a savory broth. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, perfect for summer dinners or light lunches, ready in just 45 minutes.

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Ina Garten Summer Minestrone Soup Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or orzo)
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

How To Make Ina Garten Summer Minestrone Soup

1. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
2. Add summer vegetables: Stir in zucchini, green beans, and canned tomatoes with juice. Cook for 5 more minutes.
3. Simmer the soup: Pour in chicken or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, cook pasta separately in boiling salted water. Drain and set aside.
5. Add beans and basil: Stir in cannellini beans and chopped basil. Simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through.
6. Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta just before serving. Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use different pasta shapes? Yes, any small pasta like elbow macaroni, orzo, or shells will work.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Substitute with gluten-free pasta.
• Make-ahead tip: Store soup and pasta separately to avoid mushy noodles when reheating.
• Add leafy greens: A handful of spinach or kale added in the last few minutes boosts nutrition and color.

What To Serve With Summer Minestrone Soup

This soup is satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread
• A side salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Grilled cheese sandwiches or paninis
• A chilled glass of white wine

How To Store Summer Minestrone Soup

Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep pasta separate for best texture.
Freeze: Freeze soup without pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and add fresh pasta when reheating.

Summer Minestrone Soup Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~290
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Protein: ~12g
• Fat: ~10g
• Fiber: ~7g
• Sodium: ~450mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, use vegetable stock and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes can replace the canned ones.

How do I make it heartier?
Add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken for extra protein.

Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes, sauté aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients (except pasta) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Add pasta at the end.

Try More Recipes:

• Barefoot Contessa Roasted Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
• Ina Garten Lobster Bisque Recipe
• Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe