Slow Cooker Homemade Minestrone Soup
An easy slow cooker homemade minestrone soup so you can totally skip that stop to Olive Garden! Loaded with healthy vegetables like spinach and zucchini and protein packed with beans - so hearty and comforting! Easy to make gluten free.
An easy slow cooker homemade minestrone soup so you can totally skip that stop to Olive Garden! Loaded with healthy vegetables like spinach and zucchini and protein packed with beans - so hearty and comforting! Easy to make gluten free.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 leaves
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 medium onion (about 1 cup) diced
- 32 ounce carton (4 cups) low sodium vegetable broth
- shredded or grated parmesan cheese for serving
- 2 medium carrots (about 1 cup) chopped
- 2 stalks (about 1 cup) chopped
- 4 - 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 32 oz can diced tomatoes (i usually use fire-ro
- 1-2 cups water (as needed)
- 2 medium zucchinis (around 1 1/2 cups) sliced into halves or quarters
- one (15 ounce) can red kidney beans drained and rinsed
- one (15 oz can) cannellini beans or great norther drained and rinsed
- 1 cup small shell dried pasta (use gluten free if neces
- 1-2 cups fresh baby spinach chopped (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (optional)
- fresh parsley finely chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Carbohydrate 1.43546312388953 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0675023437051024 g
- Fiber 0.432737491175125 g
- Protein 0.31179765600375 g
- Saturated Fat 0.018817843739489 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -10 (120g)
- Sodium 25.5442031198828 mg
- Sugar 1.0027256327144 g
- Trans Fat 0.0163723437391969 g
- Calories 6 calories
Step-by-step
- Add carrots, celery, garlic, onions, basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, diced tomatoes, tomato paste and bay leaves to the slow cooker.
- Stir in vegetable broth and water (use less if you like it less watery) into slow cooker and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover with lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high 3-4 hours.
- 40 minutes before serving, stir in zucchini, kidney beans, cannellini beans, spinach and pasta and cook on high heat for 30 - 40 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Season with more salt and pepper as needed and stir in balsamic vinegar (if using) and serve warm with bread and top with parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley if desired.
My Go-To Slow Cooker Minestrone: A Busy Mom's Secret Weapon
Let's be honest, moms are superheroes. We juggle work, kids, appointments, and everything in between. Finding time to cook a healthy, satisfying meal feels like a luxury sometimes. That's where my trusty slow cooker steps in. It's my secret weapon in the kitchen, transforming ordinary evenings into moments of deliciousness without demanding hours of my time. This Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is a perfect example.
I used to think minestrone was a complicated dish, something reserved for fancy Italian restaurants or skilled chefs. But this recipe proves otherwise. It’s surprisingly easy, requiring minimal prep and even less hands-on time. The slow cooker does all the hard work, gently melding the flavors of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs into a rich, flavorful broth. It’s so much better than anything you can get at a restaurant chain, and believe me, I’ve tried!
The best part? It's incredibly versatile. I often adjust the vegetables based on what's in season or what I have on hand. Sometimes I add extra carrots, other times I throw in some bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. Feel free to experiment! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily make it vegetarian or vegan by skipping the parmesan cheese and ensuring your broth is suitable.
Why this Minestrone is a Weeknight Winner
Beyond its simplicity, this minestrone is packed with nutrients. The abundance of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the beans offer a boost of protein and fiber, keeping everyone feeling full and satisfied. It's a hearty, comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. The flavors are so deep and rich that each spoonful is a comforting journey.
I often make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, retaining its delicious taste and texture, making it a great choice for busy weekdays when time is of the essence. I've even packed it for lunch in a thermos, keeping me fueled and energized throughout the day. No more pricey, lackluster takeout!
Tips and Tricks for Minestrone Success
To make the most of this recipe, here are a few of my favorite tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Every batch might vary slightly, so don't hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
- Get creative with your vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables you love. Broccoli, cauliflower, potatoes, and even leftover roasted vegetables can all add wonderful flavor and texture to this soup.
- Make it your own. This is a base recipe. Feel free to add other ingredients like lentils, sausage, or even some chicken to change it up.
- Make a big batch for meal prep. Leftovers make wonderful lunches or dinners for the week. It actually tastes even better the next day!
This Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome cooking. It's a meal that nourishes not only the body but also the soul. It's a warm embrace on a cold night and a symbol of comforting nourishment. And that is something we all need – especially busy moms.
