Minestrone Recipe: A Mediterranean Dish that Promotes Longevity

Minestrone, a classic Italian/Mediterranean soup, not only delights the taste buds but also offers a variety of health benefits that contribute to longevity. Packed with nutrient-rich seasonal vegetables, beans, and wholesome ingredients, this hearty soup nourishes the body and supports overall well-being.

Minestrone is loaded with vegetables, beans, and whole grains, providing essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health and longevity. The combination of fiber-rich beans, vegetables, and olive oil in minestrone may help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.

Minestrone is low in calories but high in fiber and protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for those looking to manage their weight and maintain a healthy body composition. The complex carbohydrates from beans and vegetables in minestrone are digested slowly, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes. Soups like minestrone contribute to daily hydration needs, supporting healthy digestion, metabolism, and overall bodily functions.

Here’s a simple and nourishing minestrone recipe that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic and parsley, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 eggplant or zucchini, diced
• 1 cup string beans, chopped
• 3 fresh tomatoes, diced
• 4 cups beef broth with beef chunks (or vegetable or chicken broth)
• 1 ½ cups of pre-cooked cannellini/pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 potato, chopped
• 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (as desired)
• Garnish with parsley
• Enjoy with homemade sourdough!

Instructions:

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
• Add diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, zucchini/eggplant, potato, pre-cooked cannellini/pinto beans and green beans to the pot and let it cook for 3 minutes.
• Pour homemade pre-cooked beef and four cups of broth and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Stir in chopped spinach or kale as desired. Cook for a few more minutes until the greens are wilted.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the pot from heat.
• Serve the minestrone hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Incorporating nourishing dishes like minestrone into your diet not only satisfies your taste buds but also promotes longevity by providing essential nutrients and supporting overall health and well-being.

Enjoy a bowl of homemade minestrone regularly to reap the benefits of this delicious and nutritious soup.