Description
Warm up your soul with this Hearty Minestrone Soup, a luscious blend of fresh vegetables, smoked turkey bacon, and rich, comforting flavors that come together in one unforgettable bowl. This classic Italian-inspired soup is packed with nutrients and textures that satisfy cravings on a chilly afternoon or cozy evening. Filled with wholesome ingredients and a savory broth that sings with warmth, this Hearty Minestrone Soup is nourishing, delicious, and perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Broth
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Beans and Greens
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Sauté the Base: Start by finely chopping the smoked turkey bacon, onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the turkey bacon until it begins to crisp and release its smoky aroma. Toss in onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This aromatic base is key to developing the rich flavors that will permeate your soup.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Next, stir in diced zucchini, green beans, and Roma tomatoes. Pour in the vegetable broth along with the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), Italian seasoning (natural), and a splash of apple cider vinegar. This combination will bring a wonderful balance of freshness and depth to the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate Beans, Spinach, and Season: After simmering, add the cannellini beans and fresh spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly and add a vibrant splash of green, while beans bring creaminess and structure. Carefully season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker texture, whisk in the natural gelling agent following package instructions to achieve that perfect consistency.
- Final Simmer and Taste: Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, giving all ingredients time to fully marry and develop a cozy, hearty character. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, and your Hearty Minestrone Soup is ready to delight your senses.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible: Fresh vegetables make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the sauté step: Letting aromatics develop slowly adds vital depth.
- Customize your beans: Swap or mix in different beans like chickpeas or navy beans for variety.
- Keep an eye on seasoning: Adjust salt and vinegar slowly to balance flavors without overwhelming.
- Use a natural gelling agent wisely: It helps thicken the soup without affecting the clean, fresh taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: minestrone, soup, smoked turkey bacon, vegetables, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, plant-based, hearty, comforting
