Imagine a steaming bowl of minestrone with sausage and pesto, a colorful medley of vegetables swimming in rich broth, with bursts of flavor dancing on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, ready to savor every spoonful. For more inspiration, check out this hearty vegetable soup recipe recipe.

This delightful dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family gatherings where laughter is as abundant as the ingredients in this hearty soup. hearty Bolognese sauce Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual weekend lunch, this minestrone is the perfect companion that promises warmth and satisfaction. warm stuffed pepper soup cozy stuffed pepper soup.

I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it and asked for seconds!

this recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavors beautifully.

• Sausage: I prefer Italian sausage for its robust flavor, but you can use any type you like.

• Onion: Use yellow onions; they add sweetness when sautéed.

• Carrots: Look for firm carrots; they bring crunch and sweetness to the soup.

• Celery: Fresh celery adds a lovely freshness and depth to the flavor.

• Zucchini: Choose medium-sized zucchinis; they hold their shape well in soups.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for richer flavor; crush them by hand when adding.

• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control the seasoning better.

• Pesto: Homemade or store-bought, pesto adds a vibrant finish to your soup.

• Fresh Spinach or Kale: These greens add nutrition and color—toss them in just before serving!

• Pasta (optional): Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow work best; they soak up all that flavorful broth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Start with Sautéing Your Base: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, releasing savory aromas into your kitchen.

Add Your Aromatics and Vegetables: Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until onions are translucent and veggies soften slightly—around 5 minutes should do.

Incorporate Zucchini and Tomatoes: Stir in diced zucchini along with crushed canned tomatoes. Let everything simmer together for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add vegetable broth; bring to a gentle boil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano or thyme for warmth.

Mix in Pasta (if using): If you’re adding pasta, throw it into the boiling soup now. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.

Add Greens and Pesto at Last Moment: Stir in fresh spinach or kale just before serving along with dollops of pesto. This ensures your greens stay vibrant and lively.

Now serve hot, garnished with extra pesto if desired! Your kitchen will smell heavenly, promises of deliciousness lingering in the air as everyone eagerly digs into their bowls of comfort.

Enjoy every bowlful of minestrone with sausage and pesto while sharing stories that turn an ordinary meal into lasting memories!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage first to develop rich flavors. While it cooks, chop your veggies and prepare the broth so everything comes together smoothly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add beans for extra protein. A sprinkle of cheese can elevate the flavor even further!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

Cooking this minestrone with my cousin was a joy; we both laughed as we tried to outdo each other with our “secret” ingredients—pesto won that round!

FAQ

Can I make minestrone vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the sausage and add more beans or mushrooms for flavor. Tuscan stuffed mushroom caps.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can last up to five days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze minestrone soup?

Absolutely! Freeze in portions for quick meals later; just avoid freezing pasta.

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Minestrone with Sausage and Pesto

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• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Minestrone with sausage and pesto is a comforting dish that combines hearty vegetables and savory sausage in a flavorful broth, finished with vibrant pesto. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make soup promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Gather around the table and enjoy a bowl of this delightful medley!

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh pesto
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini) (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
2. Incorporate chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add diced zucchini and crushed tomatoes; simmer for an additional 3–4 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle boil, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice.
5. If using pasta, add it now and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8–10 minutes).
6. Stir in spinach or kale along with the pesto just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 45mg