classic minestrone soup con pesto alla genove beans and grains
Author of this recipe: Ronnie Will
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Enjoy a comforting Classic Minestrone Soup with a twist of Pesto Alla Genovese, packed with beans and grains. Perfect for chilly days! #MinestroneSoup #PestoAllaGenovese #BeansAndGrains
### Classic Minestrone Soup with Pesto Alla Genovese Beans and Grains: A Flavorful Italian Delight
**Introduction:**
Minestrone soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines various vegetables and legumes into one delicious bowl of goodness. Adding pesto alla genovese beans and grains can elevate this traditional recipe to new heights. This guide will walk you through the steps of creating a classic minestrone soup con pesto alla genovese with detailed instructions, ensuring your meal is both flavorful and nutritious.
**Ingredients:**
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped carrots
- 4 cups chopped celery
- 2 zucchini, diced
- 1 large can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (or use a mix of legumes)
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pasta shapes (such as farfalle or rigatoni)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
**For the Pesto Alla Genovese:**
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup pine nuts
- 3 cloves garlic
- ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt to taste
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### 1. Prepare the Pesto Alla Genovese
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic.
- Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
- Gradually add olive oil while the machine runs to create a smooth pesto.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if using and season with salt. Set aside.
#### 2. Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
#### 3. Sauté Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add carrots, celery, and zucchini; cook for another 10 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften.
#### 4. Make the Soup Base
- Stir in cannellini beans and vegetable broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Add diced tomatoes and let everything cook together for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
#### 5. Combine Pasta and Vegetables
- Once the soup has thickened slightly, add cooked pasta and beans.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until pasta is fully heated through and vegetables are tender.
#### 6. Garnish with Pesto Alla Genovese
- Ladle the hot minestrone into bowls.
- Top each serving with a spoonful of freshly made pesto alla genovese, garnished with chopped parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color.
**Tips for Success:**
- Use high-quality ingredients like fresh tomatoes and basil to ensure your soup tastes as authentic as possible.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth or pasta water if needed.
- Serve with a slice of crusty Italian bread on the side to soak up any extra liquid from the bowl.
By following these detailed steps, you can create a hearty minestrone soup con pesto alla genovese that not only satisfies but also impresses your guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of this delicious Italian-inspired dish!