Ah, minestrone soup-the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Rich, hearty, and brimming with vegetables, beans, and pasta, it’s a classic Italian-inspired soup that’s both nourishing and incredibly versatile. If you’ve ever wandered through the aisles of Wegmans, you might have glimpsed their take on minestrone: fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor. But here’s the exciting part-you don’t need a trip to the store to recreate it at home. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can make a soup that tastes like it came straight from their kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week. It’s healthy, satisfying, and fully customizable to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into the details, ingredient by ingredient, step by step.
Wegmans Minestrone Soup Recipe
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about what makes Wegmans’ minestrone so special. Their version strikes a beautiful balance between freshness and heartiness:
- Vegetable-forward: Packed with seasonal veggies that maintain texture and flavor.
- Perfectly seasoned: A subtle mix of herbs and aromatics that doesn’t overpower.
- Hearty but not heavy: Beans and pasta make it filling without weighing you down.
By the end of this recipe, you’ll have a soup that looks just as vibrant as it tastes, with every spoonful bursting with layers of flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own Wegmans-style minestrone soup. I’ve included optional add-ons for anyone who loves experimenting:
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into half-moons
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 potato, peeled and cubed (optional, for extra heartiness)
Liquids & Broth
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if preferred)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup water (optional, for adjusting consistency)
Protein & Pasta
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s bring all these ingredients together into a warm, aromatic pot of minestrone:
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Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add The Vegetables And Herbs
- Toss in zucchini, green beans, red bell pepper, and potato.
- Sprinkle in oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat evenly.
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Simmer With Liquids
- Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
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Add Beans And Pasta
- Stir in the cannellini beans and pasta.
- Continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
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Adjust Seasoning And Serve
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding your ingredients can elevate a simple soup into something extraordinary:
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity, slightly peppery richness. Extra virgin is ideal.
- Beans: Cannellini are classic, but kidney or chickpeas also work. They provide protein and creaminess.
- Seasonings: Fresh herbs are fantastic, but dried ones work perfectly for a simmered soup-they release their flavors gradually.
- Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies for the best flavor and texture. Don’t overcook-they should be tender but not mushy.
- Broth: Homemade broth makes a noticeable difference, but high-quality store-bought works too.
Expert Tips
Here’s where the magic happens-little tricks that make your minestrone taste professional:
- Sweat your vegetables: Cooking onions, carrots, and celery slowly builds a flavor foundation.
- Simmer gently: Boiling vigorously can break down vegetables and make the soup cloudy.
- Layer flavors: Add herbs in stages-some early for depth, some late for brightness.
- Taste constantly: Minestrone is forgiving; adjust seasoning at each stage.
- Rest before serving: Letting the soup sit for 10-15 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Recipe Variations
Minestrone is wonderfully versatile. Here are some variations to keep things exciting:
- Protein boost: Add diced chicken, turkey sausage, or pancetta for a meaty version.
- Gluten-free: Swap pasta for gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
- Low-carb: Omit pasta and potatoes; add extra zucchini, cauliflower, or spinach.
- Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
Final Words
Minestrone is more than just a soup; it’s a canvas. Each batch is slightly different depending on what vegetables you have on hand, the herbs you choose, and how long you let it simmer. Making it at home allows you to control flavors, textures, and dietary needs, giving you a fresh, wholesome version of Wegmans’ favorite.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Wegmans Minestrone Soup?
Wegmans minestrone soup typically includes a variety of vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, zucchini, and green beans, along with kidney beans, pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and a flavorful broth. Herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme are often used to enhance the taste.
Is Wegmans Minestrone Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, the classic Wegmans minestrone soup is vegetarian, as it is made with vegetables, beans, pasta, and herbs. However, some variations may include chicken or beef broth, so it’s important to check the specific recipe or packaging.
Can I Make Wegmans Minestrone Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, Wegmans minestrone soup can be prepared in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, it may need additional liquid as the pasta absorbs some broth over time.
How Do I Make Wegmans Minestrone Soup Gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, replace the traditional pasta with a gluten-free alternative such as rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients, including broth, are certified gluten-free.
What Type Of Broth Is Recommended For Wegmans Minestrone Soup?
Vegetable broth is recommended for a vegetarian version. For added flavor, a combination of vegetable broth and a splash of tomato juice or crushed tomatoes can enhance the richness of the soup.
Can I Use Canned Vegetables For Wegmans Minestrone Soup?
Yes, canned vegetables can be used, but fresh or frozen vegetables are preferred for optimal texture and flavor. If using canned vegetables, be mindful of added salt and adjust seasoning accordingly.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Wegmans Minestrone Soup?
The total cooking time is typically around 40-50 minutes. This includes sautéing the vegetables, simmering the soup to develop flavor, and cooking the pasta until tender.
What Is The Best Way To Thicken Wegmans Minestrone Soup?
If a thicker texture is desired, you can puree a portion of the soup using a blender or immersion blender and then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, adding a small amount of cooked mashed potato or beans can naturally thicken the soup.
Are There Any Common Substitutions For Ingredients In Wegmans Minestrone Soup?
Yes, common substitutions include using spinach or kale instead of green beans, chickpeas instead of kidney beans, or different types of pasta based on preference. The recipe is highly adaptable depending on seasonal vegetables and dietary needs.
How Should Wegmans Minestrone Soup Be Served?
Wegmans minestrone soup is best served hot, often with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.