Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish known for its hearty and flavorful combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta. In this blog post, we’ll explore a quick and easy way to prepare this comforting soup using a pressure cooker. With a list of simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious batch of Minestrone soup with the added twist of basil pesto in no time.
To start off our flavorful journey, heat up your pressure cooking pot using the Saute function. Once hot, drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil and ensure it coats the bottom evenly. Add in finely chopped onions and sauté until tender, a process that takes approximately 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery, continuing to cook and stir for an additional 5 minutes. This aromatic base sets the stage for the rich flavors that will develop throughout the cooking process.
Now, it’s time to introduce the key components that make Minestrone soup a culinary delight. Incorporate two cans of diced tomatoes, 5 cups of vegetable stock, bay leaves, and a teaspoon of salt. Lock the lid in place, select High Pressure, and set the cook time to 5 minutes. The pressure cooker will work its magic, infusing the ingredients with intense flavors while keeping the preparation time to a minimum.
Once the cook time concludes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before initiating a quick pressure release. Remove the bay leaves, and the base of your Minestrone soup is ready. Now, add in the cooked digitali pasta, baby spinach, and kidney beans. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. To keep the soup warm until serving, set the pressure cooker to the Keep Warm setting.
The pièce de résistance of this Minestrone soup is the basil pesto, which adds a burst of freshness and herbaceous notes. Stir in 3 to 4 tablespoons of basil pesto just before serving, allowing the flavors to meld seamlessly with the savory broth and wholesome ingredients. This final touch elevates the soup to a new level of deliciousness, making each spoonful a symphony of tastes and textures.
This easy Minestrone soup with basil pesto is a game-changer for busy individuals who crave a homemade, comforting meal without the lengthy preparation time. With the convenience of a pressure cooker, you can enjoy a bowl of this flavorful soup that is both satisfying and nutritious. Serve it on a chilly evening or impress your guests with a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and you’ll find yourself turning to it time and time again.
