Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.

What types of pasta work best?

Small shapes such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells complement the stew well, absorbing the broth flavors.

Absolutely, seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or peas can be swapped in to add variety and freshness.

Adding a Parmesan rind during simmering infuses a rich depth, but remember to remove it before serving.

Use gluten-free pasta options to ensure the dish is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Serve alongside crusty bread and a glass of Chianti or your favorite wine for a complete meal.

A festive, hearty Italian soup loaded with colorful vegetables, beans, and pasta—perfect for a holiday gathering or cozy winter meal.

This minestrone has become a family favorite for festive dinners and is always a hit with both kids and adults alike

Fresh Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion diced, 2 carrots peeled and diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 zucchini diced, 1 cup green beans trimmed and cut into 1inch pieces, 2 cups baby spinach roughly chopped
Aromatics & Seasonings: 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Canned Goods & Liquids: 1 (14 oz/400 g) can diced tomatoes, 6 cups vegetable broth, 1 (15 oz/425 g) can cannellini beans drained and rinsed, 1 (15 oz/425 g) can red kidney beans drained and rinsed
Pasta: 1 cup small pasta shapes (eg ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
Garnishes: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional omit for vegan), 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Step 1:: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper Sauté for 56 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened
Step 2:: Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes Cook for 1 minute until fragrant
Step 3:: Add zucchini and green beans cook for an additional 3 minutes
Step 4:: Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth Bring to a boil
Step 5:: Stir in cannellini beans, kidney beans, and pasta Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1215 minutes or until pasta and vegetables are tender
Step 6:: Add baby spinach and cook for 23 minutes until wilted Season with salt and pepper to taste
Step 7:: Ladle the minestrone into bowls Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired

Sharing this warm soup during holiday dinners has created many joyful family memories

Large soup pot, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Wooden spoon, Ladle

Contains dairy if using Parmesan cheese Pasta may contain gluten use glutenfree pasta if needed Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens

Calories 320 Total Fat 6 g Carbohydrates 53 g Protein 13 g per serving

This VeggiePacked Minestrone Christmas Pasta Pot is sure to warm your heart and your winter evenings

→ Can I make this dish vegan?: Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
→ What types of pasta work best?: Small shapes such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells complement the stew well, absorbing the broth flavors.
→ Can I substitute other vegetables?: Absolutely, seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or peas can be swapped in to add variety and freshness.
→ How can I enhance the flavor?: Adding a Parmesan rind during simmering infuses a rich depth, but remember to remove it before serving.
→ Is it safe for people with gluten allergies?: Use gluten-free pasta options to ensure the dish is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
→ What dishes go well with this minestrone?: Serve alongside crusty bread and a glass of Chianti or your favorite wine for a complete meal.