There’s just something about cold days in Upstate New York that makes a hearty bowl of soup absolutely necessary. And nothing seals the deal like a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and comes together with pantry staples!
This Fresh Vegetable Minestrone is comforting and perfect for chilly nights (think spring game nights or waiting for practice to wrap up). Bonus: it’s one of those easy recipes you can make your own by adding whatever veggies you have on hand!
- 1 box Hamburger Helper Cheesy Italian Shells
- 1 carton low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 c water
- 1 c diced carrots
- 1 can Great Northern beans (drained & rinsed)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (plain, Italian-style, or fire roasted)
- 1 zucchini cut into 1/4 inch pieces
- 1/4 c shredded Parmesan
- 1 tbsp fresh or dried basil
Optional:
- Red pepper flakes (if you like a little extra heat!)
- Cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
Let’s Cook!
- In a 4-quart Dutch oven, combine the Hamburger Helper, chicken stock, water, and carrots.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the beans, diced tomatoes, and zucchini.
- Optional: if you would like some meat in the soup, you can add the cooked, crumbled sausage in to heat through.
- Cover and continue to cook until the pasta and veggies are tender.
- Finish by sprinkling Parmesan and basil over each bowl before serving.
Tip: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you stir in the beans and tomatoes!
There you have it: a simple, satisfying soup that comes together in under 30 minutes and warms you right through.
What’s your go-to soup for chilly days? Share it with us — I’m always looking for new comfort meals to try!
Eat well, friends!
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Michelle Cooks 
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