Mama's Hearty Minestrone - A Comforting Italian Soup Recipe

Mama's Hearty Minestrone is a classic Italian soup that is hearty, comforting, and packed full of vegetables, beans, and pasta. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly day when you need something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add zucchini, pasta, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top.

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