Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Every time the weather turns chilly, I find myself reaching for my slow cooker to whip up a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup. This recipe has been a favorite in my household for years, and I still remember the first time I made it. The air was crisp, and the warm aroma of vegetables and herbs filled my kitchen, beckoning my family to the dinner table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a cold day, and it brings everyone together. One pot and a few fresh ingredients transform into a hearty, nutritious soup that warms the soul. Whenever I serve it, I can see my loved ones savoring each spoonful, and it fills my heart with joy knowing that it’s healthy and delicious.
Recipe Snapshot
4 hr 15 mins
15 mins
240 mins
Hard
230 kcal
12 g
Vegan
2 g
Slow Cooker, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Grater
Why This Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup Is a Winner
Nutritious Ingredients
The beauty of Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup lies in its wholesome ingredients. Every bowl is packed with vibrant vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, ensuring that you’re not only indulging in something tasty but also nourishing your body. The addition of kidney beans and cannellini beans provides a good source of protein, making this soup a satisfying meal on its own.
Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how effortless it is. Just chop your onion, carrots, and celery, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the magic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the slow cooking process enhances the flavors, resulting in a soup that’s even better the next day.
Customizable Flavor
Another reason I adore this Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to match your taste preferences. Want it spicier? Just add more red pepper flakes. Prefer a different vegetable? Feel free to swap in your favorites. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe that never gets boring.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re looking to prepare meals in advance, this recipe is ideal. You can make a big batch on the weekend, and it stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer. Reheating it is a breeze, and each serving tastes just as good as the first. It’s a great way to ensure you have healthy options available during a hectic week.
Family Friendly
Kids adore this soup, especially when they can help add their favorite ingredients or choose toppings like freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It’s a fun way to encourage them to eat more vegetables without them even realizing it. Plus, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, which is always a bonus!
Comfort Food at Its Best
Ultimately, Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup embodies comfort food perfectly. It’s warm, hearty, and guarantees to put a smile on your face. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
When it comes to creating the perfect bowl of Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup, the ingredients are essential. Each component complements the others, resulting in a symphony of flavors and textures. The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and herbs creates a delightful medley that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 small red or yellow onion, diced
- 2 small carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup dried whole wheat elbow pasta (can use gluten-free pasta)
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Freshly-grated Parmesan cheese for serving, optional
Recipe Directions for Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
To make Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup, follow these simple steps. Each one ensures that you infuse the right flavors and enjoy a delightful meal. Let’s dive into the delicious process!
- Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces, ensuring even cooking. The more uniform your cuts, the better the texture of the soup.
- Next, in your 6-quart slow cooker, combine the diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, green beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, and both types of beans. This combination creates a colorful base that’s full of flavor.
- Add bay leaves, oregano, basil, rosemary, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir everything gently to distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
- Now, cover your slow cooker and choose your cooking setting. If you have time, cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- About 30 to 40 minutes before the soup is finished, add in the diced zucchini, pasta, and spinach. Stir well and cover again. This is the stage where the pasta will absorb the broth and become perfectly al dente.
- As the cooking time comes to an end, check the consistency of the soup. It should be thick and hearty, yet the pasta should still have some bite. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust as needed, keeping in mind that the flavors will enhance as it sits.
- Once the soup has cooked thoroughly, carefully remove the bay leaves before serving. This ensures you don’t have any unpleasant surprises while eating.
- Ladle your delicious Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup into bowls, and if desired, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy finish and enhances the overall flavor.
- Enjoy this delightful soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s warm, comforting, and simply delicious!
Things Worth Knowing
- Patience Is Key: Slow cooking allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Resist the urge to peek too often; it needs time.
- Vegetable Choices: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or kale.
- Serving Warm: This soup is best enjoyed warm, so serve it immediately after cooking. It loses some charm when reheated.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Tips and Tricks about Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Making the perfect Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience, but there are a few tips and tricks to elevate your dish. Here are some suggestions that can help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Storage: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within three days for the best flavor.
- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
- Pairing: Serve your Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a wonderful touch.
- Serving Suggestions: This soup makes a great lunch or dinner option. You can even serve it at gatherings—everyone loves a warm bowl of soup!
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to experiment with different beans, like black beans or chickpeas. Adding spinach or kale can enhance the nutritional value!
- Spice Control: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level. Start with less if you prefer a milder soup.
Perfect Matches for Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Finding the perfect accompaniment to your Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of toasted, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. It adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Fresh Salad: Pair your soup with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette. The freshness complements the hearty soup beautifully.
- Cheese Toast: Top slices of bread with Parmesan cheese and broil until melted for a delightful side.
- Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta adds a fresh and zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
- Seasonal Fruits: Serve with a bowl of fresh seasonal fruits for a refreshing dessert option afterward.
- Occasions: This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or during winter festivities. It’s always a hit on chilly nights!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is truly a comforting dish that embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and is loaded with nutritious ingredients that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to gather your family around the table and serve this delightful soup. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces, ensuring even cooking. The more uniform your cuts, the better the texture of the soup.
- Next, in your 6-quart slow cooker, combine the diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, green beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, and both types of beans. This combination creates a colorful base that’s full of flavor.
- Add bay leaves, oregano, basil, rosemary, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir everything gently to distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
- Now, cover your slow cooker and choose your cooking setting. If you have time, cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- About 30 to 40 minutes before the soup is finished, add in the diced zucchini, pasta, and spinach. Stir well and cover again. This is the stage where the pasta will absorb the broth and become perfectly al dente.
- As the cooking time comes to an end, check the consistency of the soup. It should be thick and hearty, yet the pasta should still have some bite. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust as needed, keeping in mind that the flavors will enhance as it sits.
- Once the soup has cooked thoroughly, carefully remove the bay leaves before serving. This ensures you don’t have any unpleasant surprises while eating.
- Ladle your delicious Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup into bowls, and if desired, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy finish and enhances the overall flavor.
- Enjoy this delightful soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s warm, comforting, and simply delicious!
