There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of minestrone to nourish both body and soul.
This rustic vegetable minestrone with a swirl of fresh basil pesto is my go-to for chilly evenings or when I crave a clean, feel-good meal.
Packed with vibrant veggies, creamy beans, and herby goodness, it’s cozy, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant – Loaded with real vegetables and herbs.
Comfort in a bowl – Warm, hearty, and full of rustic charm.
Nutrient-rich – High in fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein.
Perfect for leftovers – Even better the next day!
Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or swap in what’s on hand.
Ingredient Highlights
Green cabbage – Adds a mild sweetness and texture.
Golden potatoes – Tender and hearty, they help thicken the broth.
Borlotti or cannellini beans – Creamy and protein-packed.
Herbs (rosemary, thyme) – Infuse the soup with deep, earthy aroma.
Parmesan rind (optional) – Adds rich umami depth to the broth.
Basil pesto – Bright, garlicky, and cheesy, the perfect finishing touch.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t skip the sauté – Cooking the aromatics well brings out maximum flavor.
Use the parmesan rind – If you have it, it adds a lovely savory richness.
Make the pesto fresh – It’s what takes this minestrone over the top!
Let it rest – The soup tastes even better after it sits for a bit.
Use veggie stock, not water – It makes a big difference in taste.
How to Make Rustic Vegetable Minestrone with Pesto
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a soup pot over medium.
Add onion, celery, and carrot with a pinch of salt.
Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs
Add sliced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and peppercorns.
Stir to combine and coat everything in oil.
Step 3: Wilt the Cabbage
Stir in shredded cabbage.
Cook until wilted and softened, about 5–10 minutes more.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Add diced potatoes, the parmesan rind (if using), and vegetable stock.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in Beans and Adjust Seasoning
Add the rinsed beans, season with sea salt to taste, and simmer a few more minutes.
Adjust the broth if needed.
Step 6: Make the Pesto
In a food processor, blend basil leaves, toasted nuts, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan.
Season with sea salt and extra lemon juice to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle soup into bowls and top with a generous spoonful of pesto.
Optional: add fresh baby arugula or spinach just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Crusty sourdough or garlic toast
Grated parmesan on top
A drizzle of olive oil for extra richness
Serve with a simple green salad
Variations & Swaps
Make it vegan – Omit the cheese in the pesto or use a vegan alternative.
Add pasta – Stir in small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.
More protein? – Add chickpeas or lentils for extra plant-based power.
Use kale instead of cabbage – Or try Swiss chard for a twist.
No nuts? – Use sunflower seeds in the pesto for a nut-free version.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months (without the pesto).
Reheat gently: On the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Make-ahead tip: Prepare the soup and pesto separately, and combine when serving.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors deepen beautifully after a day in the fridge.
Do I need to use the parmesan rind?
No, but it adds wonderful depth. If you don’t have it, just season the soup well.
What’s the best substitute for cabbage?
Kale or spinach works great if you want a greener twist.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—sauté the aromatics first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
How do I keep the pesto bright green?
Add a splash of lemon juice and don’t over-blend it to avoid browning.
Is it okay to use canned beans?
Absolutely! Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before adding.
Can I freeze the pesto?
Yes! Spoon into ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Final Thoughts
This minestrone brings everything I love about rustic Italian cooking into one comforting bowl.
It’s cozy, filling, and layered with flavor—from the sweet veggies to the savory herbs and that bold, zesty pesto.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for lunches, this soup delivers every time.
