Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 large carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
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1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans (or other white beans), drained and rinsed
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1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
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4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
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1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
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Olive Oil: Olive oil forms the base for sautéing the vegetables, adding flavor and a healthy fat to the soup.
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Beans: Cannellini and kidney beans provide a rich source of protein and fiber, making the soup hearty and filling.
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Vegetable Broth: For a vegan version, vegetable broth keeps the soup light yet flavorful. You can swap it with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian alternative.
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Pasta: Small pasta such as ditalini or elbow macaroni works perfectly in this soup. It absorbs the flavors of the broth while maintaining a nice texture.
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Herbs: A blend of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme brings out the authentic flavors of this Italian classic.
Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
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Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot and stir to combine.
Build the Soup:
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Add the Beans and Broth: Stir in the cannellini beans, kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Pasta: Once the soup is simmering, add the pasta. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still al dente.
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Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Final Touches:
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Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 45minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 12g