James Martin Minestrone Soup

Explore the warmth and richness of James Martin's Minestrone Soup, a hearty winter version that is perfect for upping your veg quota. This delightful soup combines the earthy flavors of leeks, carrots, bacon lardons, and a medley of other vegetables with the unique addition of smashed spaghetti, all brought together with a homemade pesto that adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.

Ingredients for the James Martin Minestrone Soup

• Olive oil: 25ml
• Leek: 1, sliced
• Carrot: 1, diced
• Spaghetti: 75g, smashed
• Bacon lardons: 100g
• Water: 250ml
• Celery stick: 1, diced
• Fennel top: 1, sliced
• Pumpkin: 100g, diced
• Spring cabbage and chard: A few leaves, shredded
• Butter: 15g
• Radishes: 2, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Pesto:
  • Parsley: 1 large bunch
  • Parmesan cheese: 25g, grated
  • Olive oil: 100ml

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the bacon lardons in a large non-stick frying pan with olive oil. After a couple of minutes, add the leek, carrot, and celery, and continue to cook for another two minutes.
2. Introduce the smashed spaghetti and remaining vegetables to the pan, along with the water, and cook for five minutes.
3. To prepare the pesto, blend parsley, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
4. Complete the soup by stirring in the pesto and topping with sliced radishes for a refreshing crunch.

Storage and Reheating

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water if necessary to thin it out to your liking.

Nutritional Information

The soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables used. The addition of bacon lardons adds a savory flavor but also contributes to the fat content, which is balanced by the use of olive oil and Parmesan cheese in the pesto for healthy fats.

FAQ about the James Martin Minestrone Soup

• Can I use different vegetables? Yes, the recipe is versatile, and you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand.
• Is it possible to make it vegetarian? Absolutely, just omit the bacon lardons and use vegetable stock or water.

This Minestrone Soup recipe, courtesy of James Martin, showcases the chef's ability to create comforting, flavorful dishes that are perfect for the colder months. Its rich vegetable content and homemade pesto make it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

For more detailed information on the recipe, visit James Martin's official website​​.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of soup with family and friends, and let the rich flavors of this hearty dish warm you from the inside out.