Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup Recipe

Minestrone soup is a wholesome, hearty dish packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta. Jamie Oliver’s take on this Italian classic offers a simple yet flavorful meal that is perfect for any day of the week. This recipe serves 6–8 people and takes about 1 hour to prepare.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to create Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup step by step, along with tips and variations to help you make it your own.

What is Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup is a traditional Italian vegetable soup made with a variety of seasonal vegetables, pasta, and beans, all simmered in a flavorful broth. It is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for cold days or as a light yet satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, this soup is a nutrient-dense option for a wholesome meal.
• Simple to Make: With clear steps and common ingredients, it’s easy for anyone to prepare.
• Customizable: You can swap ingredients to suit your taste or use what’s in season.
• Perfect for Batch Cooking: This recipe makes a generous amount, and leftovers store well for future meals.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of fresh vegetables and hearty beans makes it a perfect comfort food.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 sticks of celery, chopped
• 1 zucchini (courgette), diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 400g (14 oz) can of tomatoes
• 400g (14 oz) can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 150g (5 oz) small pasta shapes, like ditalini or macaroni
• 1.5 liters (50 fl oz) vegetable stock
• Olive oil, for frying
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A handful of fresh basil, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring jug

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Begin by finely chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Base

• In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until the vegetables are soft but not browned.

Step 3: Add the Zucchini and Tomatoes

• Next, stir in the diced zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the canned tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add the Stock and Beans

• Pour in the vegetable stock and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed cannellini beans. Lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

• Add the small pasta shapes to the soup and cook according to the pasta’s package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until tender.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.

What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup?

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful side by serving garlic bread alongside.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad balances the heartiness of the soup.
• Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses to complement the soup.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve with a side of grilled seasonal vegetables for extra flavor.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup

• Use Fresh Vegetables: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add the pasta towards the end to keep it from becoming mushy.
• Season Gradually: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for the best results.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or replace vegetables depending on what you have.
• Use Homemade Stock: If possible, use homemade vegetable stock for a richer flavor.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup

• Add Meat: For a heartier soup, add some cooked sausage or shredded chicken.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Vegan-Friendly: Omit the Parmesan and ensure your stock is vegan.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Swap in seasonal veggies like butternut squash or peas.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup Leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled before freezing.
• Portion Control: Divide into individual portions before freezing for easy meals.
• Label and Date: Always label and date containers before storing to keep track of freshness.

How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Minestrone Soup Leftovers?

• Stovetop: Heat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Oven: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover, and warm in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes.
• Add Extra Stock: Add a splash of stock or water if the soup has thickened during storage.
• Stir Well: Give the soup a good stir before serving to ensure even reheating.

FAQs

Final Words

Minestrone soup is the perfect example of a simple, wholesome meal that nourishes the body and soul. With fresh vegetables, pasta, and beans all simmering together in a rich broth, Jamie Oliver’s version is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a starter or a main, this comforting dish is both filling and full of flavor. Ready to try it out? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today!