Minestrone

Minestrone is a thick soup of vegetable, often with the addition of pasta or rice, and sometimes beans. It originated in Italy, and it is usually made with whatever vegetables are in season or readily available. The name minestrone comes from the Italian word minestra, meaning "soup" or "dish", the augmentative suffix -one indicating that it is a substantial dish. In Hebrew, it is known as מינסטרונה (Minestrone). In French, it is called minestrone, and in Spanish, it is referred to as minestrone or sopa minestrone. The soup has been popularized globally and is often associated with Italian cuisine. It is typically made with a base of onions, garlic, and celery, and may include ingredients such as tomatoes, carrots, zucchini, and green beans. The choice of vegetables can vary greatly, and regional variations of the dish exist throughout Italy. Minestrone is often considered a peasant dish, as it was traditionally made to use up leftover ingredients and provide a hearty, nutritious meal.