Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup Recipe – Hungarian Chef

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul, and when it comes to hearty, wholesome soups, Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup stands out as a true crowd-pleaser. This traditional Italian soup is a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, simmered together in a rich tomato broth that’s seasoned to perfection.

It’s a healthy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any season, and with this recipe, you can recreate the magic of Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup right in your kitchen. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to cook up a storm – your taste buds are in for a treat!

What is carrabba’s minestrone soup?

Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup is an Italian vegetable soup that originated in the region of Lazio. It is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries, and its popularity continues to grow worldwide. The word “minestrone” comes from the Latin word “minestra,” which means “to serve or nourish.” This hearty soup was traditionally made with whatever vegetables were in season, making it a versatile and adaptable dish.

Why You’ll Love this Carrabba’s minestrone?

Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup is a beloved comfort food that offers the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this soup:

1. It’s packed with nutrients: This soup is loaded with an array of vegetables, including tomatoes, carrots, celery, onions, zucchini, and beans, making it a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It’s also a great source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining good digestive health.
2. It’s vegetarian-friendly: For those who follow a vegetarian diet, Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup is an excellent option as it does not contain any meat or animal products.
3. It’s budget-friendly: This soup is made with simple, affordable ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe to use up any vegetables you have on hand, making it a budget-friendly meal.
4. It’s easy to make: This soup may taste like it has been simmering for hours, but it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare! It’s a perfect meal for a busy week!

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Ingredients 

• Zucchinis: Zucchinis provide a fresh and slightly sweet flavor to the soup. They also give a great texture and are an excellent source of vitamins.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a rich, fruity flavor base that enhances the taste of the other ingredients.
• Plum Tomatoes: They add a tangy sweetness and a vibrant color to the soup. Tomatoes are also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
• Chicken Stock: The backbone of any soup, it provides a depth of flavor and is the liquid medium in which all the ingredients meld together.
• Green Cabbage: It lends a hearty, robust flavor and is packed with nutrients and fiber, adding to the health quotient of the soup.
• Garbanzo Beans: Also known as chickpeas, these beans add a creamy texture and are a good source of protein.
• Carrots: They add a hint of sweetness and a lovely pop of color to the soup. Carrots are also high in beta-carotene, which is good for eyesight.
• Bay Leaves: These leaves are a common aromatic used in soups to add a subtle depth of flavor.
• Kidney Beans: They are a great source of protein and fiber, adding satiety to the soup.
• Celery Stalks: Celery gives a nice crunch and a distinctive savory flavor to the soup.
• White Onions: They are essential for a flavor base in many dishes including soups. Onions also have numerous health benefits.
• Russet Potatoes: They add thickness to the soup, making it more filling. Potatoes are also high in vitamin C and potassium.
• Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham adds a savory and slightly salty flavor to the soup.
• Garlic Cloves: Garlic adds a spicy, pungent flavor that complements the other ingredients and boosts the overall taste of the soup.
• Pecorino Romano Rinds: These rinds add a rich, salty, and slightly sharp flavor. They’re a secret weapon in Italian cooking to add depth to soups and sauces.
• Green Beans: They provide a nice crunch and color to the soup, and are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.
• Salted Butter: It adds a creamy richness and helps to sauté and bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
• Cannelini Beans: These beans are mild and creamy, adding to the texture of the soup and providing extra protein.
• Pecorino Romano Cheese: This cheese is used for garnishing, it gives a sharp and salty flavor boost.
• Dried Parsley and basil: These herbs add an aromatic note to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: These are essential seasonings that help to enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Directions 

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

In a large soup pot, begin by heating the olive oil over medium heat. This will serve as the base for your flavorful soup.

Step 2: Sauté Prosciutto

Add the prosciutto to the pot and sauté it until it turns slightly browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to release its delicious aroma.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Introduce the minced garlic cloves, chopped onion, celery stalks, and carrots into the pot. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, allowing these aromatic ingredients to infuse their flavors into the soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Zucchini, Cabbage, and More

Stir in the zucchini, cabbage, green beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, and potatoes. Cook this mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening and melding their tastes.

Step 5: Season and Add Broth

Add chicken stock and bay leaves to the pot. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 6: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. This simmering period allows the ingredients to fully marry their flavors.

Step 7: Incorporate Cannellini Beans

After the initial simmer, add the cannellini beans to the soup. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes to ensure all components are tender and well-cooked.

Step 8: Remove Bay Leaves and Prosciutto

If desired, remove the bay leaves and prosciutto from the soup before serving. This step is optional but can help achieve a smoother texture and presentation.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Serve the hot soup in bowls, and garnish each serving with pecorino romano cheese, dried parsley, and basil. These garnishes will add a final layer of flavor and freshness to your delicious minestrone.

Notes 

• For a vegetarian option, you can omit the prosciutto and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
• Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season.
• You can also make this soup in a slow cooker by cooking it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• For a heartier meal, you can add some cooked pasta or rice to the soup before serving.

Storage Tips 

• This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it properly before reheating.
• When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken/vegetable stock to thin out the soup if needed.

Nutrition Information 

Serving Suggestions 

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping and soaking up all the delicious flavors of this hearty minestrone.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and well-rounded meal.
• This soup also makes a great appetizer or starter for an Italian-themed dinner party.

What other substitute can I use in Carrabba’s minestrone? 

• If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of this soup, you can substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the prosciutto.
• You can also add in other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or squash for added flavor and texture.
• For a gluten-free option, you can use rice or quinoa instead of pasta.
• Additionally, if you don’t have access to pecorino romano cheese, you can use parmesan cheese as a substitute for garnishing.

FAQs

How can I add more protein to this Minestrone Soup?
To increase the protein content in the Minestrone Soup, you have a few options. You can add cooked chicken or turkey which are both lean proteins and will blend well with the flavors of the soup. Dice them into small pieces and add them towards the end of the cooking process so they don’t overcook. If you prefer a vegetarian source of protein, tofu is also a great alternative.

Why does my soup taste bland?
If your soup tastes bland, it might be lacking in salt or other seasonings. Salt is essential in bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients, so try adding a bit more, tasting as you go to prevent oversalting.

Remember, the Pecorino Romano cheese and prosciutto in this recipe also contribute to saltiness. Additionally, you could enhance the flavor by adding more of the herbs (basil and parsley) or include other spices like paprika or thyme according to your preference.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans in this recipe?
Yes, dried beans can be used in place of canned beans, but it’s important to note that they’ll need some preparation. Dried beans should be soaked overnight and then cooked until tender before adding to the soup. This process ensures that the beans are soft and digestible. Keep in mind that using dried beans will extend the overall preparation time for the recipe.

Conclusion

Carrabba’s Minestrone Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s versatile, easy to make, and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option for those looking for a hearty and healthy soup.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this minestrone is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give it a try! Also, please share your versions and variations of this soup in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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