Immerse yourself in the heart of Italy with every bite of Minestrone alla Genovese. The luscious broth boasts a symphony of fresh vegetables, harmoniously blending their individual flavors. The aromatic basil pesto, a signature touch of the Genovese, wafts through the air, promising a delightful culinary journey. Each spoonful offers a medley of textures from al dente pasta to tender beans, transporting you directly to a cozy trattoria overlooking the Ligurian coast.
Precise Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings and Ideal Serving Size
- Yields: 6 servings
- Ideal Serving Size: 350ml per person
Essential Nutritional Information
- Calorie count: 275 kcal per serving
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Proteins: 12g
- Fats: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
Ingredients, Measured in Grams
- Fresh tomatoes: 200g
- Carrots: 100g
- Onions: 100g
- Celery: 50g
- Green beans: 150g
- Zucchini: 150g
- Cannellini beans: 200g (canned)
- Small pasta (like ditalini): 150g
- Fresh basil pesto: 100g
- Olive oil: 40ml
- Vegetable broth: 2000ml
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Begin by dicing the tomatoes, carrots, onions, celery, green beans, and zucchini.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium flame. Sauté the onions until translucent.
- Add the carrots and celery to the pot, stirring occasionally until slightly tender.
- Incorporate the tomatoes, green beans, zucchini, and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the pasta and cannellini beans to the pot. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Before serving, stir in the fresh basil pesto, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Ladle into bowls and serve piping hot.
Proven Tips for Culinary Success
- Opt for fresh, organic vegetables for a more vibrant flavor.
- For a richer taste, you can add a parmesan rind while simmering.
- Always add the pesto just before serving to retain its fresh aroma and taste.
Anticipated FAQs
- Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth? Absolutely, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
- What if I don't have fresh basil pesto? You can use store-bought pesto, but the flavor of fresh homemade pesto is unparalleled.
- Can I freeze the soup for later? Yes, but add the pasta and pesto only when you're reheating to serve.