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Soulful Southern Style Minestrone Soup

This Southern-inspired Minestrone Soup is a rich mix of vegetables, beans, and pasta, all simmered in a savory broth with collard greens and a dash of hot sauce for that classic Southern kick. It's a cozy, satisfying dish that's perfect for cooler days and pairs well with cornbread or can be enjoyed solo.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 people

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon bacon grease or olive oil
  • 1 cup onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup carrots sliced into thin rounds
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup celery diced
  • 1 medium zucchini chopped into half-moons
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 14- ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 15- ounce can cannellini beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 15- ounce can kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups collard greens chopped (or substitute with spinach)
  • 2 teaspoons Seasoning Salt
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving Optional

Instructions

  • In a large pot, heat the bacon grease (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
  • Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Add the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika, mixing well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Once the soup is simmering, add the cannellini beans, kidney beans, and elbow macaroni. Continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
  • Stir in the chopped collard greens, letting them wilt for about 3 minutes. Add the Seasoning Salt and hot sauce, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra touch of richness, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.