Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup is a vibrant, healthy, and deeply satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. Packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a perfect comfort food that’s both nourishing and easy to make. Whether you’re looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet or just craving a heartwarming bowl of soup, this recipe is a delightful choice.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup is a contemporary twist on the classic Italian dish known for its heartiness, wholesome ingredients, and robust flavor. Minestrone traditionally contains a variety of vegetables, beans, and sometimes pasta, all simmered together to create a filling and nutritious meal.

Jamie’s version elevates the dish by using seasonal ingredients, fresh herbs, and a rich broth base, making it both comforting and nourishing. The soup is versatile, and you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or to accommodate what you have available in your pantry. It’s ideal for a light lunch or dinner, and even freezes well for later meals.

Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup, you’ll need a collection of fresh ingredients that come together to create a balanced and flavorful dish. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Olive oil: For sautéing and creating a rich base.
• Onions: Chopped, to add sweetness and depth.
• Carrots: Peeled and chopped, for natural sweetness and texture.
• Celery: Chopped, to add a mild, savory flavor.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic richness.
• Zucchini: Chopped, for a fresh, mild flavor.
• Potatoes: Peeled and diced, to make the soup more hearty.
• Canned tomatoes: Crushed, to form the soup’s tangy base.
• Cannellini beans: Drained and rinsed, for protein and creaminess.
• Vegetable stock: A rich, flavorful broth that brings everything together.
• Pasta: Small types like ditalini or elbow macaroni, to add texture.
• Fresh herbs: Such as basil, thyme, or rosemary, to infuse the soup with fragrance.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated, for sprinkling on top before serving for added richness.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Optional: You can add green beans, spinach, or peas depending on the season and your preferences.

Equipment Needed

The following kitchen tools and equipment will make preparing Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup easy and efficient:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: To cook the soup in, providing ample space for all the ingredients to simmer and develop flavor.
• Chopping board and knife: To chop and dice the vegetables.
• Wooden spoon: To stir the ingredients while cooking, helping to prevent burning.
• Ladle: For serving the soup in bowls.
• Grater: To grate the Parmesan cheese for topping the soup.
• Colander: For draining the canned beans and rinsing them.

Having these basic tools at hand will ensure you can prepare this comforting soup with ease.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup is simple, and the process allows you to savor the vibrant flavors of seasonal vegetables. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prep the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, and any other vegetables you’re using. Mince the garlic and set aside.
2. Cook the Base: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the potatoes, zucchini, and any additional vegetables like green beans. Continue to sauté for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
4. Add Tomatoes and Stock: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer. You want the soup to gently bubble so that the vegetables can cook through and release their flavors.
5. Cook the Pasta and Beans: Stir in the beans and pasta. Let everything simmer for 10-15 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
6. Season the Soup: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Stir in your choice of fresh herbs, adjusting the flavor to your liking.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and drizzle with a little more olive oil. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Expert Tips

• Customize the Vegetables: Minestrone is incredibly versatile, so feel free to swap out the vegetables depending on what you have available or what’s in season. Try adding peas, spinach, or kale for a different twist.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and thyme will give the soup an aromatic depth that dried herbs cannot match. Add them at the end of cooking to preserve their fragrance.
• Pasta Choice: Choose small pasta shapes that can absorb the broth without becoming too soft. Small elbows, ditalini, or orzo work well.
• Make it Heartier: If you want to make the soup even more filling, consider adding more beans or incorporating a bit of cooked chicken or sausage for added protein.
• Flavor Boost: For a richer flavor, sauté your vegetables in olive oil for a few minutes before adding the broth. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice right before serving to balance the flavors.

Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup is the epitome of comforting and wholesome cooking. With a medley of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and rich broth, it’s not just a bowl of soup-it’s a satisfying and nourishing meal that can be customized to fit your preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy dish to enjoy during the week or need something that can be made in advance and stored for later, this soup is a fantastic choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying homemade dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup, a classic Italian dish, is as versatile as it is comforting. While Jamie Oliver’s version provides a solid foundation, you can easily customize it based on what ingredients you have at hand or to suit your dietary preferences. Here are a few variations that can elevate your minestrone game:

1. Vegetarian Version: Jamie’s minestrone is already pretty veggie-forward, but you can ensure it’s fully plant-based by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.
2. Add Some Greens: For an extra burst of color and nutrition, incorporate leafy greens like kale, spinach, or Swiss chard. These greens will wilt nicely into the soup, adding a vibrant green hue and extra health benefits.
3. Swap the Beans: Traditionally, minestrone features kidney beans, but feel free to switch them out for other types like white beans, chickpeas, or lentils. The different textures will give the soup a unique twist and adjust the heartiness to your preference.
4. Meat Lovers’ Twist: If you’re looking to add some protein, try incorporating pancetta, bacon, or sausage. These additions will infuse the soup with smoky, savory notes that make it even more indulgent.
5. Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers. A touch of cayenne pepper can give the soup an extra kick that enhances the rich tomato base.
6. Pasta Variations: Jamie’s minestrone calls for small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni, but you can use any type you have in your pantry, such as orecchiette, fusilli, or farfalle. For a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta altogether and add extra beans or vegetables.
7. Herbal Flavors: Experiment with different herbs to enhance the aromatic profile of the soup. Thyme, rosemary, basil, or even oregano can be used in place of or alongside the traditional bay leaves. Fresh herbs added at the end of cooking will retain their vibrant flavor and color.

These variations keep the soul of the minestrone intact while allowing you to experiment with flavors that best suit your mood or pantry.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Minestrone soup, like many soups, tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. However, proper storage is essential to keep it fresh and safe for later consumption.

1. Cooling: Before storing any leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature. If you want to speed up the process, transfer the soup to a shallow container to increase surface area for quicker cooling. Avoid letting it sit at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Refrigerating: Once cooled, transfer the minestrone to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
3. Freezing: If you want to keep your soup for longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion as the liquid freezes. Minestrone can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
4. Storing the Pasta Separately: If you plan to freeze minestrone, consider storing the pasta separately. Pasta tends to get mushy when frozen and reheated, so if you keep it aside, you can simply cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again.
5. Reheating: When reheating your minestrone, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving in long intervals to prevent uneven heating.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy your minestrone soup at its best, whether you’re savoring leftovers the next day or months down the line.

What Goes Well With Minestrone Soup?

Minestrone soup is a hearty, wholesome meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are a few options that go wonderfully with minestrone:

1. Crusty Bread: A thick slice of crusty, toasted bread is the perfect partner for minestrone. You can dip it into the soup or use it to scoop up the vegetables and broth. A fresh baguette, sourdough, or Italian ciabatta would be ideal choices.
2. Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami-rich depth to the soup. For a slightly different twist, you could use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a sharper flavor.
3. Side Salad: A light, crisp salad balances out the richness of the soup. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette would complement the flavors of the minestrone without overpowering it.
4. Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent pairing, garlic bread is an excellent choice. The garlicky, buttery flavor will contrast beautifully with the savory broth of the minestrone.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a more filling meal, serve minestrone with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melty cheese contrasts wonderfully with the soup’s texture, creating a comforting and satisfying combo.
6. Wine Pairing: If you’re enjoying your minestrone with a glass of wine, opt for a light to medium-bodied red, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir. These wines won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the soup. Alternatively, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can also work well, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
7. Roasted Vegetables: For a wholesome and satisfying meal, pair minestrone with roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelized flavors of roasted vegetables pair beautifully with the fresh, herb-infused minestrone.

These side dishes and drinks create a balanced, well-rounded meal that enhances the natural flavors of the soup.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup is an incredibly versatile dish that’s perfect for experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option, want to spice things up, or add some hearty protein, this soup is easy to adapt to suit your needs.

By following the best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy this meal on multiple occasions without losing any of its comforting appeal. And when it comes to pairing, crusty bread, cheese, and a fresh side salad are just a few of the delicious options that complement the soup beautifully. So, next time you’re in the mood for something warm and nourishing, minestrone soup has you covered, whether you’re serving it on its own or alongside some fantastic sides.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup Recipe?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup include onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, courgettes (zucchini), tomatoes, cannellini beans, and a variety of fresh herbs like thyme and basil. Additionally, pasta, vegetable stock, and Parmesan cheese are often used to enhance the flavor.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup Vegetarian?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup can easily be made vegetarian. Simply replace the vegetable stock with a vegetarian or vegan alternative, and avoid using Parmesan cheese, which is made from animal rennet. You could substitute the cheese with a dairy-free option if desired.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup?

The total preparation and cooking time for Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup is typically around 45 to 60 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables, sautéing them, simmering the soup, and adding the beans and pasta to cook through.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup freezes very well. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What Type Of Pasta Works Best In Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are typically recommended for Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup. These types of pasta absorb the soup’s flavors well and complement the vegetable textures.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely!

Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup is very adaptable. You can add extra vegetables such as spinach, kale, parsnips, or peas. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste and what you have available in your kitchen.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup Spicier?

To make Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup spicier, you can add red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili peppers, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the amount according to your preferred spice level. You can also use spicy sausages or a bit of smoked paprika for added heat.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup in a slow cooker. Simply follow the recipe but add the ingredients to the slow cooker instead of cooking them on the stovetop. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the pasta and beans toward the end of the cooking time.

Is There A Way To Make Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup Gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring the vegetable stock you use is gluten-free. Be sure to check labels on all packaged ingredients to avoid hidden gluten.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Minestrone Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s minestrone soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping, a fresh green salad, or a side of grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top. For a more filling meal, add a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of focaccia.