Mary Berry Minestrone Soup Recipe

This hearty and wholesome Mary Berry Minestrone Soup is packed with seasonal vegetables, pasta, and a rich tomato base. It’s the perfect comfort food for colder days and a brilliant way to enjoy a nutrient-rich, warming meal. The balance of textures and the depth of flavor make this classic Italian-inspired soup a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

What is Mary Berry Minestrone Soup?

Minestrone is a traditional Italian vegetable soup that typically includes beans, pasta, and seasonal vegetables simmered in a tomato broth. Mary Berry’s version emphasizes simplicity, freshness, and flavor, using commonly available ingredients like carrots, celery, tomatoes, and courgettes. The addition of pasta and beans makes it hearty and filling.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling – Loaded with fiber, protein, and vitamins
• Versatile Ingredients – Use whatever veggies you have on hand
• One-Pot Meal – Easy to make and perfect for batch cooking
• Freezer-Friendly – Ideal for meal prep
• Family Approved – Mild, comforting, and full of texture

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Minestrone Soup

• Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
• Carrots (2, peeled and diced)
• Celery Sticks (2, diced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped)
• Courgette/Zucchini (1 medium, diced)
• Chopped Tomatoes (1 tin, 400g)
• Vegetable Stock (1.2L / 5 cups)
• Tomato Purée (1 tbsp)
• Dried Mixed Herbs or Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)
• Cannellini Beans (1 tin, 400g, drained and rinsed)
• Small Pasta Shapes (75g / ½ cup)
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for serving

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board and knife
• Ladle

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Sauté the base vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté gently for 8–10 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add remaining vegetables and seasoning

Add the courgette, tinned tomatoes, tomato purée, herbs, and vegetable stock. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer the soup

Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add pasta and beans

Stir in the cannellini beans and pasta, and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Season and serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Minestrone Soup

• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – For dipping and scooping
• Side Salad – Adds freshness and crunch
• Grated Parmesan – Melts beautifully into the warm soup
• Olive Tapenade Toasts – A flavorful pairing
• Stuffed Bell Peppers – For a fuller meal
• Glass of Light Red Wine – Complements the tomato base

Expert Tips for the Best Minestrone Soup

• Use Seasonal Veggies – Swap in green beans, peas, cabbage, or spinach
• Cook Pasta Separately (Optional) – Prevents it from overcooking in leftovers
• Add Parmesan Rind – Simmer in the soup for extra depth
• Don’t Overboil the Pasta – Keep it slightly firm for texture
• Double the Batch – Freezes well for future meals

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Minestrone Soup

• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta
• Add Meat – Stir in cooked bacon or pancetta for a heartier version
• Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika
• Vegan Version – Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative
• With Rice or Barley – Swap pasta for grains for variety

Best Practices to Store Minestrone Soup

• Refrigerate Leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze for Later – Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheat Gently – On the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if thickened
• Avoid Overcooked Pasta – Slightly undercook pasta if freezing

Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~240
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~9g
• Fat: ~8g
• Fibre: ~7g

FAQs

Can I make minestrone soup in advance?

Yes, minestrone soup is perfect for making ahead. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use different beans in this soup?

Absolutely. While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute with kidney beans, butter beans, or chickpeas, depending on what you have available.

How do I stop the pasta from soaking up all the liquid?

To avoid soggy pasta, you can cook it separately and add it to each bowl before serving. This is especially helpful when preparing the soup in advance.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

Yes, it’s vegetarian as written. For a vegan version, simply skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Minestrone Soup is a nourishing, budget-friendly, and comforting recipe that celebrates vegetables and wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to customize, ideal for family meals, and brings warmth to any table—one ladle at a time.

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