Winter Minestrone

This hearty Winter Minestrone is the perfect soup to warm you up during the cold months. Packed with winter vegetables like butternut squash, kale, and potatoes, along with hearty beans and pasta, it provides a comforting blend of textures and flavors. A base of tomatoes and vegetable broth, simmered with Italian herbs, gives this soup a savory richness. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal to nourish the family or a cozy dish to enjoy by the fire, this minestrone is both nutritious and delicious. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete winter meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 cups chopped kale (or spinach)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Stir in the carrots, celery, butternut squash, and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the beans, zucchini, and kale. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the kale is wilted.
5. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Stir the cooked pasta into the soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm with a slice of crusty bread.

Enjoy the cozy comfort of this winter minestrone!