Minestrone with Sausage and Pesto is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug—comforting, hearty, and downright delightful. Picture yourself on a chilly evening, the aroma of fresh herbs mingling with savory sausage wafting through your kitchen. This dish is not just soup; it’s an experience that warms your soul and fills your belly. For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.
Now, imagine cozying up in your favorite chair, spoon in hand, ready to dive into a bowl of vibrant vegetables swimming in rich broth. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this minestrone will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; it’s not just food; it’s love in a bowl.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This minestrone with sausage and pesto offers an easy preparation method that even novice cooks can master
- The flavor profile is a delicious mix of savory and fresh, making every spoonful a delight
- Its beautiful colors make it visually appealing, sure to impress any guest
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have at home
I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family; they were so impressed that they cleaned their bowls like they were auditioning for a cooking show.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Italian Sausage: Use spicy or mild sausage depending on your heat preference; just make sure it’s high quality. Spicy Italian Crescent Ring.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for better texture; crush them before adding to the pot.
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Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness while allowing flavors to shine through.
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Fresh Basil: Always pick fragrant leaves; they elevate the dish with their aromatic freshness.
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Zucchini: Look for firm zucchinis; they add texture and absorb all the tasty flavors from the broth. Zucchini Ricotta Melts.
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Carrots: Select bright orange ones; they contribute sweetness and color to the minestrone.
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Pesto Sauce: Homemade or store-bought works great—just ensure it’s flavorful and fresh.
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Pasta (Ditalini or Orzo): Small pasta shapes hold onto the broth wonderfully, making each bite satisfying.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Vegetables: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and zucchini until softened and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
Browning the Sausage: Push veggies to one side and add sliced Italian sausage. Brown until cooked through (about 5 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks for even flavor distribution.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in crushed canned tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer while enjoying the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Incorporate Pasta: Toss in your chosen pasta and let everything cook together until tender (about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking—this keeps the pasta nice and fluffy.
Finish with Pesto and Basil: Remove from heat once pasta is cooked. Stir in fresh basil leaves and pesto sauce until evenly mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—trust your palate!
Serve It Up!: Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with extra basil or grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot alongside crusty bread for dipping perfection!
Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful minestrone with sausage and pesto! It’s not just soup; it’s comfort food at its best! For more inspiration, check out this hearty vegetable soup recipe.
You Must Know
- Minestrone with sausage and pesto is a hearty delight, perfect for cozy dinners
- The balance of flavors creates a comforting dish that warms the soul
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on your pantry staples
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the sausage until golden, then add vegetables and broth, simmering until everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or beans! Try adding kale or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your minestrone with sausage and pesto is flavorful, use high-quality stock
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente
- Don’t skip fresh herbs for that vibrant taste boost
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious aromas filled the kitchen, creating moments I cherish. Mediterranean Hummus Toast.
FAQ
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken or turkey sausage works well if you prefer a lighter option.
What can I substitute for pesto?
You can use store-bought or homemade basil sauce, or even a spinach-based version.
How do I make it vegetarian-friendly?
Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth along with plenty of beans for protein.
Minestrone with Sausage and Pesto
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Minestrone with Sausage and Pesto is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty soup combines a medley of fresh vegetables, savory Italian sausage, and fragrant pesto, creating a deliciously satisfying dish that will warm your soul. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds as they savor each vibrant spoonful. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this minestrone is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup ditalini or orzo pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced zucchinis in 2 tablespoons olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the sliced Italian sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the crushed canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta and cook for another 8-10 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil and pesto until well mixed. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
