Chef Bihi Spring Minestrone
Experience the delights of spring with a bowl of warm, hearty spring minestrone. This traditional Italian soup combines fresh, seasonal vegetables to enhance your mealtime. With vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a perfect way to greet the season!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 3 carrots
- 3 white turnips
- 1 head of broccoli
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (plus additional for drizzling)
- 1.2 liters of water
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Fleur de sel (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon of Herbes de Provence or Bruschetta spices
Instructions
- Slice the yellow onion.
- Press the garlic cloves.
- Peel the celery, carrots, and turnips, then chop them into brunoise (small dice).
- Cut the broccoli into florets.
- In a pot, drizzle olive oil and heat over low heat.
- Sauté 1 clove of garlic and the onion until they become transparent.
- Add the chopped vegetables (except for the broccoli) and cook on low for 5 minutes with the smoked paprika.
- Pour in the water, add the bouillon cube, salt, pepper, and tomato paste.
- Cover and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes on a gentle boil.
- Add the broccoli florets at the end of the cooking time.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil with chopped basil and Herbes de Provence.
- Serve the broth in deep plates and drizzle with the herb oil mixture.
Notes
This soup is a celebration of spring vegetables. Feel free to switch out any vegetables based on what you have available and in season. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavors!
Recipe Tips
- For enhanced flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
- Pair the soup with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Add protein by incorporating cooked beans or lentils.
Nutritional Information
This recipe has approximately 150 calories per serving, packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
FAQ
- Can I make minestrone ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make minestrone ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Is it possible to freeze the soup?
- Yes, minestrone can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to three months.
- What can I serve with minestrone?
- Pair minestrone with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a hearty sandwich for a satisfying meal.
- Can I add pasta to my minestrone?
- Absolutely! You can add pasta toward the end of the cooking time, ensuring it cooks just until al dente.
- How can I make this recipe vegan?
- This recipe is inherently vegan, but always check each ingredient’s packaging to confirm. Use vegetable broth and omit any non-vegan garnishes.
