Indulge in our Blue Cheese Minestrone Beans & Grains Recipe! Savory veggies, creamy blue cheese, and hearty grains in a comforting broth. #bluecheeseminestrone #beansandgrains #comfortfood
- Red Bell Pepper Flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
**Keywords:** blue cheese minestrone, beans and grains, minestrone recipe, healthy soup, vegetarian meal, vegan options, gluten-free diet
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Steps
### Blue Cheese Minestrone Beans and Grains: A Flavorful Italian Dish
#### Introduction
Blue cheese minestrone is a hearty and delicious soup that combines traditional Italian flavors with the unique taste of blue cheese. This recipe brings together beans, grains, and vegetables in a rich broth, making it an ideal comfort food for any season.
#### Ingredients
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup pearl barley or other small grain
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
#### Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
### Step-by-Step Guide
1. **Preparation**
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly to ensure there’s no dirt left.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. **Cooking the Base**
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. **Adding Vegetables and Broth**
- Stir in diced carrot and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
4. **Adding Ingredients**
- Add the diced zucchini, canned tomatoes (including liquid), kidney beans, and pearl barley to the pot.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper according to taste.
5. **Simmering the Soup**
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
6. **Final Touches**
- Just before serving, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over each bowl of soup.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
7. **Serving Suggestions**
- Serve immediately while hot, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.
- Optionally, serve with crusty bread to soak up any remaining broth in the bowl.
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious blue cheese minestrone that not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a nutritious meal. Enjoy this hearty soup as a comforting meal or during colder weather!