Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is a heartwarming, veggie-packed, hearty Italian soup that’s perfect for those chilly days when you just want to curl up on the couch. This soulful soup is a perfect fit for all occasions be it a family dinner or a comforting meal for a cozy weekend. Its rich, tangy tomato base punctuated with a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta ensures you get a burst of flavors with each spoonful. You’ll love it not only for its delectable taste but also for the simplicity to prepare it. You just have to gather your ingredients, throw them in the slow cooker, and enjoy a bowl of this goodness without sweating out in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Yield: Approximately 8 cups
So folks, get ready to make magic with your slow cooker, your home will be filled with the delicious aroma of this classic Italian soup!
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups green beans
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can white beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup small pasta
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Knife
- Cutting board
Garlic and onions form the base of the soup, providing an intense yet complementary flavor. The beans and pasta give the soup a hearty bite and the Parmesan adds a tangy finish. The vegetable broth can be replaced by chicken broth if you aren’t vegetarian. For added tanginess, a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end would do wonders but is completely optional.
How To Make Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
- Start by preparing your veggies. Chop your onions, carrots, and celery, then mince your garlic.
- Combine and place them in the slow cooker along with green beans, kidney beans, white beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before the soup is ready, add in the pasta. Cover the cooker again and let it continue cooking.
- When the soup is ready, add in the fresh spinach and cook just long enough for it to wilt.
- Your Minestrone Soup is ready to serve! You can top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added flavor kick.
Tips For The Best Results
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta or it will become mushy.
- For a thicker soup, you can blend some of the beans with a little broth before adding to the slow cooker.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You may freeze this soup but it would be better without the pasta, which tends to become mushy when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I add meat to this soup?
A: Yes, you can add cooked chicken or sausage if you prefer.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes, you can customize based on your preferences. Zucchini and peas would be great additions.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can. Use about 2 cups of fresh, chopped tomatoes.
Q: What kind of pasta can I use for this soup?
A: You can use any pasta of your choice, small sizes would be best.
Q: Can I cook this soup on a stovetop?
A: Yes, but you will have to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Nutritional Facts of Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup
This soup is low in fat, high in fiber, rich in vitamins and minerals from the assortment of veggies, and a good source of protein from the beans.
When it comes to serving suggestions, our Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup could be a meal on its own, served with a slice of toasted garlic bread or a side of salad. If you are a fan of soups, this recipe is like a jackpot in your cooking demesne. It’s hearty, delicious, and ridiculously easy to pull off. A warm bowl of this beautiful melange of flavors is truly a feast for your taste buds. Enjoy cooking and Bon app��tit folks!
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