When it comes to hearty, nutritious, and soul-warming meals, minestrone always stands out. This Instant Pot version of the classic vegetable minestrone is a quick, one-pot solution that combines fresh vegetables, wholesome beans, and tender pasta in a savory broth. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to using the Instant Pot, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious, satisfying soup perfect for any occasion.
Why Choose Minestrone Soup?
Minestrone is a versatile Italian dish that can be customized to fit various dietary preferences. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a nutrient-rich choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, cooking it in an Instant Pot significantly reduces the preparation time without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich and flavorful base.
- 1 medium onion, diced: For a sweet and savory undertoneDiced two medium carrots: Add a hint of natural sweetness
- Diced celery stalks: Add a light crunch and taste.
- 2 medium zucchini, diced: A nutrient-packed vegetable that blends well.
- 1 cup red beans (canned or cooked): For protein and fiber.
- 1 cup small pasta shells (or any small pasta): Adds texture and makes the soup more filling.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds tanginess and depth of flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Forms the base of the soup.
- 2 cups water: Helps achieve the desired consistency.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For a hint of Italian flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy aroma.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- To taste, add salt and pepper as desired.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a vibrant garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
First, put the Instant Pot in “Sauté” mode. Heat the olive oil after adding it.
Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 3–4 minutes. Stir occasionally until the vegetables soften and release their aromas.
2. Add the Remaining Ingredients
Next, add the zucchini, red beans, pasta shells, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
3. Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Choose the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and set it to high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Quick Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to “Venting.” Wait for the pressure to fully release before opening the lid.
5. Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste after removing the bay leaf from the soup. Spoon the soup into dishes, sprinkle with the parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Minestrone Soup
• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like spinach, kale, or green beans for extra nutrients.
• Use Whole-Grain Pasta: For a healthier version, swap regular pasta with whole-grain or gluten-free options.
• Double the Recipe: This soup stores well. Make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Add Protein: For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or turkey sausage.
Nutritional Benefits of Vegetable Minestrone Soup
This hearty vegetable minestrone is a powerhouse of nutrients:
• Rich in fiber: From beans, vegetables, and pasta, helping with digestion.
• Packed with vitamins: Carrots, celery, and zucchini provide a variety of vitamins, including A, C, and K.
• Low in fat: The soup uses olive oil as a healthy fat source.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)of minestrone soup
Estimated values based on six servings:
• Calories: 180
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 550mg (varies based on broth and canned ingredients)
• Vitamin A: 75% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 25% of the DV
• Iron: 10% of the DV
• Calcium: 6% of the DV
FAQs About Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup
1. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the pasta shells with gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta altogether and add more beans or quinoa for a hearty, gluten-free option.
2. How can I make the soup more protein-rich?
To boost protein, you can:
• Add more beans like chickpeas or white beans.
• Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu before serving.
• Top the soup with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan cheese for a protein boost.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to avoid it becoming mushy.
4. What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to customize with your favorites! Great options include:
• Green beans
• Spinach or kale (add these at the end of cooking)
• Sweet potatoes
• Peas
5. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure to cook them beforehand. Dried beans need to be soaked and fully cooked before adding them to the soup to ensure they are tender.
6. How do I adjust the consistency of the soup?
• For a thicker soup: Reduce the amount of water or mash some of the beans to create a creamier texture.
• For a thinner soup: Add more vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
7. How long does the soup last in the fridge?
This soup stays fresh for 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
8. Can I substitute fresh herbs with dry ones?
Yes, fresh herbs like oregano and thyme can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Use around three times as much fresh herb as you would dry. To maintain the flavor, add fresh herbs at the end of cooking.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with:
• Crusty bread or garlic bread.
• A light side salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Grilled cheese or paninis for a more filling meal.
10. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Make a large batch and divide it into individual portions for the week. It reheats well and makes a convenient, nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
With its vibrant colors, hearty texture, and delicious flavors, this Instant Pot Hearty Vegetable Minestrone Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any season. Quick to prepare and brimming with nutrients, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you need a warm, satisfying meal.
