The Timeless Appeal of the Chicken Salad Sandwich

The chicken salad sandwich is a symphony of simple ingredients coming together to create a culinary classic lunchtime treat that has withstood the taste test of time. This homely delicacy offers a delicious blend of tender cooked chicken, creamy mayonnaise, crispy celery, piquant onions, and an array of seasonings, with each bite delivering a comforting and satisfying experience. Whether nestled between slices of freshly baked bread or perched atop a crisp bed of greens, the chicken salad sandwich is universally adored and endlessly customizable.

The classic chicken salad embodies a harmony of flavors. The tender chicken paired with mayo, accentuated by the crunch of fruit and/or vegetables and the sharpness of the onion, is what makes this dish a perennial favorite. Crafting this sandwich is a no-fuss endeavor, which resonates with the busy lives we lead.

Got Leftovers?

Transforming leftovers into a delectable chicken salad sandwich is a stroke of genius in the kitchen. It's a culinary rerun that can be as thrilling as the original meal. Whether packing it for lunch or enjoying a quick dinner, this sandwich is versatile, taking on a different character with every adaptation. Enhance the texture by throwing in some nuts, like pecans or sliced almonds. Mix in cranberries or raisins to balance the savoriness with a touch of sweetness. A squirt of lemon juice or a sprinkle of paprika can elevate the sandwich's flavor profile. Remember, with a touch of creativity, you can resurrect yesterday's leftovers into today's scrumptious treat. Be sure to put leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. This is the blueprint for a lunch staple that never fails to delight, validating its status as an all-time favorite.

Is Chicken Salad Healthy?

Approaching the notion of a hearty chicken salad sandwich from a wellness perspective, it’s clear that this dish can indeed be a healthy choice. You can substitute using lean chicken meat to reduce fat content while maintaining high protein. Integrate a bounty of diced veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes for added nutrients and fiber. Consider swapping out traditional mayo for healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or avocado. In terms of bread options, you can opt for many varieties, such as whole-grain bread to serve on or use as a salad topper on top of lettuce. Wrap your chicken salad in dark green lettuce leaves for a grain-free twist. Never be afraid to experiment with this recipe and use what you have on hand as well. It's a simple and delicious meal that you'll never be disappointed with. A thoughtful assembly of ingredients can easily steer a chicken salad sandwich into the realm of nutritious dining.

Ingredients

5 cups chopped or shredded chicken

1/2 cup sliced almonds

1/2 cup red grapes, quartered

1/2 cup granny smith apples cut into 1/2 inch small pieces

1-1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon homemade ranch seasoning

1/4 cup chopped red onion

1 tablespoon lemon juice

8 croissants, or other bread for sandwiches

Directions

1. Cook chicken, or as a substitute, you can do a rotisserie or slow cooker chicken minus the skin. Shred or chop and add to a large bowl, let cool.

2. In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise, ranch seasoning and lemon juice. Add to chicken with almonds, red grapes, apples and red onion. Fold together.

3. You can serve this as is or add in sandwiches with tomato and lettuce. Also is delicious as a salad on top of a bed of lettuce. Enjoy!

Other Delicious Recipes:

Delicious Buttery Italian Croissant Sandwich

The Perfect Match: Grilled Steak & Blue Cheese Salad with Grilled Corn paired with J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon

The Perfect Recipe for an Authentic Chicago-Style Dog

How to Make Delicious Lobster Sheet Pan Nachos At Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make Delicious Lobster Sheet Pan Nachos At Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a unique and delicious gourmet appetizer or lunch with these delicious Lobster Nachos! This decadent dish is made with crispy tortilla chips, succulent lobster chunks, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful pico de gallo and is a dupe on Disney's California Adventure lobster nachos, which is where I first tried and fell in love with this dish. The combination of crunchy, salty chips, savory buttery lobster, and a creamy cheese sauce creates a flavor profile that is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. I had this many many years ago at what is now the Lamplight Lounge in Disneyland’s California Adventure and it is a continued favorite of mine. I haven't been to Disney in years, but have been craving this dish badly, so this is my version of their tasty dish!

The best part about these Lobster Nachos is that they are easy to make and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. All you need is some fresh lobster, cheese, chips, and a few other ingredients. The full recipe is below and don't be afraid to add in anything else you'd like or take out things you don't. This dish is extremely customizable, so experiment and make it all your own! Most importantly, enjoy every last bite!

Does this recipe work well with other types of seafood?

The traditional nacho topping of cheese and cream is the perfect accompaniment to the sweet and savory lobster. You can also substitute the lobster with other types of seafood nachos such as shrimp, crab, or scallops. For a different twist on the dish, why not try adding a combination of different seafoods? You can enjoy the same cheesy, creamy nacho topping with a variety of seafoods. Transform the dish into a seafood medley by adding different types of seafood. Experiment with different textures and flavors by adding different types of seafood. This delicious Lobster Nacho Recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering, especially for those that love the taste of lobster.

Ingredients

16oz Chips

1/2 pound shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 pound shredded Monterey jack cheese

4 Sliced Serrano peppers

queso (favorite store-bought or make your own)

Beans:

15 ounces seasoned black beans

2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro, Chopped

1 teaspoon Ground Cumin

Crema:

1 1/2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce

2 garlic cloves, minced

8 ounces sour cream

Salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste

Pico:

5 Roma Tomatoes, Diced

1/2 Medium Red Onion, Diced

1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro

1 tsp Sea Salt

1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice

Lobster:

3 large lobster tails

2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to broil. Prep beans by rinsing until the water runs clear. Add to bowl with cilantro and cumin and mix set aside.

2. Prep crema adding all ingredients to another bowl and mixing until well combined.

3. Prep Pico dicing all ingredients and adding to another bowl. Toss until well combined.

4. Cook lobster. Clean lobster removing all veins and hard shell. Chop into bite-sized pieces and pat dry. Add to a warm pan with butter and cook until bright pink. 3-5 minutes.

5. Layer chips on a sheet pan no chips overlapping. Add half of Monterey cheese & Cheddar cheese. Layer another layer of chips and cheese again. Top with queso & black beans. Place under the broiler until ready and the cheese is melted, watching carefully, 2 to 4 minutes.

6. Add pico de gallo; top with lobster. Drizzle chipotle crema over top and garnish with sliced serrano peppers (optional). Serve immediately & Enjoy!

Are there any variations to the recipe that I can try?

This delicious lobster nacho recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Start with a layer of crispy tortilla chips, then top with succulent lobster, melted cheese, and your favorite nacho toppings. For a seafood twist, substitute the lobster for cooked shrimp or crabmeat. Add a layer of refried beans for a heartier version of the dish. Sprinkle grilled corn or diced bell peppers over the top for added flavor and texture. Use jalapeños or other hot peppers for a spicy kick. Try adding a layer of cooked ground beef or chorizo for a meatier version. The toppings choices are endless – top with diced tomatoes, red onions, and avocado slices for a colorful finish. You can also use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey jack, for a different cheesy flavor. Finally, add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole to the top of each nacho for an extra creamy and flavorful finish. Serve these delicious lobster nachos with your favorite beverages and get ready to enjoy!

Other Appetizer Recipes You Will Love:

Create a Delicious Layered Hummus Dip for Your Next Snack or Appetizer

Delicious Buttery Italian Croissant Sandwich

Fruit & Goat Cheese Bruschetta

5 Ingredient Bacon Ranch Football Shaped Cheese Ball

The Perfect Summer Meal: Grilled Chicken, Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh garden produce and a delicious grilled meal. This Grilled Chicken, Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad is the perfect way to enjoy some of Summer's offerings. The combination of grilled chicken, Mexican street corn, and cucumber salad provides a delicious and unique mix of flavors and textures that will have your family and friends begging for more. Not only is this meal delicious, but it is also fairly simple to make and can be served as a main course, or served as a side at your Summer BBQ. This recipe is sure to be a hit! Let's get to grilling!

This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad Has All the Grilled Corn Flavor In a Bowl of Greens and Veggies with Chicken. This delicious Grilled Chicken Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad is the perfect meal for any lunch or dinner. It combines the creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors of grilled chicken, Mexican street corn, and fresh cucumbers for an ideal balance of tastes and textures. Not only is this meal bursting with flavor but it’s also packed with protein and veggies for a tasty and nutritious meal. Plus, you can have it ready in just 15 minutes for an incredibly quick and easy dish.

This versatile recipe can be easily customized with your favorite proteins and veggies. Whether you’re looking for something to serve at a Summer barbecue or a potluck, this Grilled Chicken Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to please everyone.

What is Mexican Street Corn?

Mexican Street Corn or "Elote" is a type of grilled corn that is often served in Mexico. This classic Mexican dish is often served as an appetizer or side dish. It's a simple yet delicious combination of fresh sweet corn, mayonnaise, parmesan or cotija cheeses, chili powder, and lime juice that creates a unique and pleasing flavor. If you're looking for a fun twist on this traditional dish, try my Grilled Chicken Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad! I've taken the classic Mexican Street Corn recipe and added grilled chicken and a crisp cucumber salad to the mix for an extra boost of flavor. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The combination of flavors in this dish is truly something special, making it a great addition to any meal. So if you're looking for a unique and flavorful dish, give this Street Corn Salad a try!

This tasty salad is made with fresh ingredients like grilled chicken, Mexican street corn, cucumbers, arugula, avocado, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and cumin. The chicken is cooked to perfection, while the Mexican street corn adds a delightful sweetness and spice. The cucumbers give the salad a nice crunch, while the avocado adds a bit of creaminess. The olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and cumin provide an extra layer of flavor that makes this salad irresistible. This dish is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a main or side dish. It is a great way to get in your daily serving of vegetables in a flavorful and satisfying way. The combination of flavors is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

1 lbs Grilled Chicken

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

7 oz. Arugula Lettuce

3 cups corn

2 cups cucumber

1 tbsp olive oil

1 bunch of fresh cilantro

1/2 large red onion

2/3 cup parmesan or cotija cheese

1 large avocado

Dressing

1/4 cup mayonnaise

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

sea salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder and salt & pepper to taste. Grill on bbq or on the stovetop. 6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Set aside to rest for 10 min while preparing salad. Slice thinly once it has rested.

2. Prepare dressing by mixing together all ingredients above until fully blended; mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, chili powder and salt & pepper to taste.

3. Mix together street corn. Add corn to pan used to cook chicken toast lightly on the outside to give a grilled flavor or if BBQing add to grill with chicken. Slice cucumbers in half and thinly slice. Same with red onion. Add cucumber, red onion and corn to bowl and mix together with olive oil 1 tsp fresh chopped cilantro 1/3 cup of shredded cheese. Mix together until fully saturated and blended well.

4. Assemble salad. Lay down lettuce, add sliced grilled chicken, slices of avocado and Mexican street corn mix. Drizzle dressing on top and sprinkle additional cilantro on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Is This Dish Suitable for Vegetarians?

Unfortunately, it is not suitable for vegetarians, as it includes grilled chicken. However, the dish can be easily modified to make it vegetarian-friendly. To make the dish vegetarian-friendly, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein such as tofu or beans. The salad can also be served without the chicken, and still be packed with flavor and nutrients.

To make the dish vegan-friendly, be sure to choose vegan-friendly ingredients such as vegan mayonnaise and vegan cheese. Additionally, you can also use plant-based milk, vegan margarine, and vegan yogurt to make the salad vegan-friendly. With these simple modifications, you can create an incredibly delicious and nutritious vegan version of this dish. Feel free to make it all your own! Whether you choose to make it vegetarian or vegan, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, and it is sure to become a family favorite.

Can I Make the Salad Spicier?

This Grilled Chicken Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad is a delicious and easy meal to make for the whole family. Not only is it healthy and flavorful, but it can also be easily customized to suit everyone’s taste. For those who like a little bit of heat, try adding extra chili powder to the dressing. Or, for an even more spicy crunch, add diced jalapeños to the salad. If you’re looking for a smoky flavor, add diced chipotle peppers. To add a subtle spicy flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the salad. Finally, for a burst of flavor, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing. No matter which additions you choose, this Grilled Chicken Mexican Street Corn & Cucumber Salad is sure to be a hit!

Other Salad Recipes You Will Love:

How to Make the Perfect Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad

Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Apples, Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans

Delicious Buttery Italian Croissant Sandwich

Do you have a craving for a savory and delicious sandwich that you can make at home and feel like you got a famous deli experience? Look no further than this Buttery Italian Croissant Sandwich! This sandwich is the perfect combination of Italian flavors, buttery croissants, and fresh ingredients, making it the perfect lunch time meal. Whether you’re looking for that perfect lunch or a great dish to bring as an appetizer, this sandwich will satisfy your cravings. Keep reading to find out how to make this buttery Italian croissant sandwich and why it’s so delicious!

Buttery Italian Croissant Sandwich is a unique twist on the classic sub sandwich. The buttery croissant roll adds an extra crunch and flavor to the sandwich, making it different from a classic roll taste, and just truly irresistible. Topped with a ranch butter, this yummy croissant it's a surefire hit. Adding in a variety of Italian deli meats, cheeses, and condiments to choose from, you can customize your sandwich to your heart's delight. It's a great choice for any lunch or party. I will be serving them at my Superbowl party, but these are perfect for summer parties or the office potlucks. Trust me, they will be gone before you know it. These sandwiches are so easy to make and are perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings. Serve them up with a side of chips or fresh fruit for a complete classic meal.

INGREDIENTS

12 croissants (I did mini ones for a perfect grab size for Superbowl)

1/4 cup melted butter

3 teaspoons ranch seasoning

4 oz. Pepperoni

4 oz. Hard Salami

7 oz Ham

7 slices provolone cheese

2 cups cut iceberg lettuce

1/2 red onion

1/4 cup pepperoncini's

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

1/3 cup mayonnaise

3 teaspoons ranch seasoning

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. While heating whisk together butter and Italian seasoning and butter tops of croissant rolls. Place in oven for 5 minutes or until golden. This helps the butter to melt into rolls and toast slightly.

2. While rolls cook mix together lettuce mixture of chopped iceberg, sliced red onion, pepperoncini's, white wine vinegar, mayonnaise and ranch seasoning. Stirring to evenly coat.

3. Cut rolls in half and start filling with provolone, pepperoni, hard salami, ham and lettuce mixture.

4. Insert toothpicks in middle to hold together and serve! You can make ahead to refrigerate as well. Enjoy!

If you're a sandwich lover, you simply must try these Buttery Italian Croissant Sandwiches. You won't regret it! The crunchy roll, savory meats, and tasty condiments come together in a delicious combination that will leave your mouth watering. Plus, with the ease of customization, you'll be able to make the perfect sandwich, with the perfect meats, cheeses, and vegetables that you crave each and every time.

As always I love to share some easy substitutions to every recipe I post. Some easy subtle changes to this recipe would be to change the cheese to a mozzarella, or any other favorite of yours. Changing meats to your liking is easy as well. Prosciutto is a great addition to this one as well. If you want to use a bigger sandwich size croissant you can add other additions like bell peppers, avocado, tomatoes, or any other of your favorite tastes. Depending on the crowd size you are serving you could even custom cater each sandwich to the wants of your crowd, with the same basic idea for each.

Side Dishes you can serve with these Sandwiches

How to Make the Perfect Pear and Pomegranate Arugula Salad

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe

Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad with Apples, Goat Cheese & Candied Pecans

Deliciously Creamy Basil Tomato Soup: An Easy and Delicious Recipe

An Alluring Combination: French Onion & Shallot Soup Recipe

French Onion & Shallot Soup is a classic French dish that has been delighting people for centuries. This hearty, flavorful soup is perfect for a cold winter day and is sure to warm you up while still delighting your taste buds. This soup is easy to make and is filled with ingredients that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a professional chef, French Onion & Shallot Soup is a great dish to make for your next dinner. In this blog post, I will walk you through the steps for making this delicious soup.

Best French Onion and Shallot Soup

The combination of the two creates a delicious flavor and texture. The sweetness of the caramelized onions and shallots pairs perfectly with the beef broth and creates a rich, flavorful soup. Caramelizing the onions and shallots is key to getting the most out of this simple dish.

The process of caramelizing the onions and shallots for this soup is straightforward and easy. To start, heat up a large skillet over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, add the onions and shallots and cook until they are lightly browned. This will take close to an hour. Once the onions and shallots are caramelized, add the beef broth and bring to a boil. To make the soup even more flavorful, add wine, a pinch of thyme or a bay leaf. Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, the soup should be thick and flavorful. To top the soup off, pour into individual bowls and add a crunchy baguette and cheese. This adds a nice contrast and texture to the soup. You will pop in the oven until cheese is melted and browning on top.

French Onion and Shallot Soup is a classic French dish that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Topping the soup off with crunchy croutons or cheese croutons adds texture and a nice contrast. French Onion and Shallot Soup is a great way to use up leftover onions and shallots and is a comforting meal for any time of year. With its rich and hearty flavor profile, it's no wonder why it's a popular choice whenever you're looking for something comforting and delicious. Beef stock, garlic, and herbs give the soup an added depth of flavor that takes it to the next level.

The best French onion and shallot soup is made with freshly caramelized onions and shallots. This caramelization process takes time but is well worth the effort as it brings out the sweet flavor of the onions and shallots. Adding a dash of brandy or cognac is a great way to enhance the flavor, or you can also add wine or sherry to the soup for a rich, complex flavor. Topping the soup with a generous sprinkling of grated cheese enhances the flavor and gives the soup a cheesy crust. My favorite way to top off this meal is with a glass of Decoy Chardonnay. The Gruyère cheese topping with the french onion & shallot soup pairs very well with Chardonnay, and makes this a delicious combo.

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter

4 yellow onions, thinly sliced

3 shallots, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon salt

2 sprigs of fresh thyme, additional for topping

2 bay leaves

2 cloves minced garlic

1/2 cup white wine

6 cups chicken or beef broth

salt & black pepper to taste

6-12 sourdough baguette slices

8 oz shredded gruyère cheese

Instructions

1. First you will add butter to hot pan. Letting melt before starting to add in Shallots. I like to brown mine a little bit to add additional flavor. Once butter is ready add in shallots and coat with butter. Let sauté in pan for 5 minutes & add onions. Stirring frequently (every 5 minutes) over medium-high heat for an hour until onions and shallots are fully caramelized and cooked down. Make sure as you are stirring you scrape up any brown bits that might start to form each time. If they are too hard to rise off the pan, you can pour in some of the wine that we use later now to help.

2. Add in salt, thyme, bay leaves and garlic. Stir together to incorporate. Slowly pour in white wine and chicken or beef broth. Let come to a boil and reduce heat to medium-low. Let simmer for 15 minutes.

3. While soup is simmering preheat oven to broil and lightly butter baguette let toast while oven is preheating. Grate cheese for next step.

4. Now that soup is ready pour equally into oven safe bowls. Top each bowl with sourdough baguette slices. This could be 1-2 per bowl depending on the size of bowl and baguette. Top that with your gruyere cheese and place of a baking sheet.

5. Put soup bowls on baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and starting to become a deep golden on tops.

6. Remove from oven, top with additional fresh thyme salt and black pepper. Serve and Enjoy!

French onion and shallot soup is best served with a side of crusty French bread or delicious Cesar salad. The combination of the savory soup and the crunchy bread makes for the perfect incredible bite. You'll be sure to enjoy every last spoonful of this classic soup.

Notes

French Onion & Shallot Soup is a classic French comfort food dish that is sure to please anyone who enjoys the sweet and savory flavor of caramelized onions. The soup’s flavor comes primarily from the combination of caramelized onions and shallots, along with a variety of herbs and spices. However, if you’re not a fan of shallots, they can be substituted by removing them and adding two additional onions to the soup. You can also add in mushrooms for an even richer flavor.

For other ways to substitute, I recommend using beef or chicken stock but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable stock instead. The soup is usually served topped with a baguette and melted gruyere cheese, but croutons topping instead of a baguette make for an added crunch, which I occasionally prefer. For a healthier version, use low-sodium broth and skip the cheese and croutons. For an added touch of protein, you can top with crispy bacon and additional herbs. French Onion & Shallot Soup is a delicious meal that can be adapted to meet a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a first course, this dish will be sure to please.

Other Soups You’ll Love!

For those looking for a creamier option, there is also the classic Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup. This dish combines sausage, potatoes, kale, blended of herbs and is finished off with a hint of cream for a truly decadent experience. Or, for those looking for something a bit more substantial, there is always Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe, a protein-packed dish that is sure to fill you up on even the coldest of days. Needing something with a little kick? Bring the Heat with this Deliciously Spicy Tortellini Soup. Finally, there is the classic Deliciously Creamy Basil Tomato Soup, which combines tomatoes and basil with a hint of cream for an unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting soup or something a bit more substantial one of these recipes is sure to hit the spot.

I truly hope you enjoy this recipe and all my others. If you are looking for a recipe on amandawarrenblog.com you can search in my search bar for anything you can't find. I am always sharing more videos on my Instagram, Pinterest and Tik Tok as well so you can see the exact process of how each meal is made. Thank you again for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon!

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe

"Mom's Favorite" Minestrone Soup Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal for Everyone

If you're looking for a comforting and delicious soup recipe that will bring as big of a smile to your mom's faces as it does to my moms, then look no further! This classic minestrone soup recipe is sure to please. It's easy to make, packed with nourishing ingredients, and simply tastes like good old-fashioned home cooking. An added bonus is it's a great way to use up any leftovers you have in the fridge. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a pot of this soup in no time and make your mom happy and proud. Read on for the recipe!

Tips for Minestrone Soup

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe is a hearty and flavorful soup that is sure to be a hit with not just Mom, but the whole family. It's a great way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. I actually started making this soup because it's the only soup my mom truly enjoys and will order when out at a restaurant. So naturally, I had to try my own hand at it. I am always trying to please the family and make meals they all will love.

To start off this delicious soup, melt some good quality butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add in some chopped garlic and onion and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. Next, add in the vegetables of your choice, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini, and sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften. Once the vegetables have softened, add in some canned tomatoes, 5 oz of chopped pancetta, cannellini beans and season with your favorite Italian seasoning blend. I personally use my own italian seasoning, which I make monthly to just to have on hand. Pour in enough broth or stock to cover the vegetables and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Next, add in some cooked pasta and beans, such as cannellini beans, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Finish off your soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional herbs if desired. Serve with a crusty loaf of bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

Mom's Favorite Minestrone Soup Recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family. It's a hearty and flavorful soup that is packed with vegetables and beans and is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation, especially on those cold days.

What to Serve with Vegetarian Minestrone Soup

Mom’s favorite minestrone soup recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that will make anyone’s mouth water. The perfect combination of veggies, broth, and spices make this dish a family favorite. This soup is best served with a variety of accompaniments such as crusty French bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, Caesar salad, grilled vegetables, antipasto platter, focaccia bread, cheese & herb biscuits, caprese salad, roasted garlic bread, toasted ciabatta bread, garlic toast, and bruschetta.

This soup is a great way to make a meal out of whatever ingredients you have on hand. You can customize the soup by adding different veggies and beans, or even switching up the broth and seasonings. If you’re looking for an easy, yet delicious meal, Mom’s favorite minestrone soup recipe is just the thing. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup and pair it with any of the accompaniments listed above for a complete meal.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons salted butter

1 large onion

4 cloves minced garlic

5 oz diced pancetta

1 cup chopped carrots

1/4 cup chopped celery

1 zucchini chopped

1 can diced tomatoes (lightly drained)

6 cups vegetable broth

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

2 bay leaves

black pepper (to taste)

1 can cannellini beans

1 1/2 cup pasta (of your choice)

2 handfuls of spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup white wine

2 tablespoons basil pesto

Parmesan for topping

Instructions

1. To make this delicious soup, simply gather all of the ingredients and have them ready. Then, chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat in your favorite stockpot. I love my 8 qt 360 Cookware stockpot for making all soups. Then add the vegetables and cook until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

2. Next, add the canned tomatoes, pancetta, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Then, add the zucchini, beans and pasta and reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes.

3.To finish it off, you will stir in the spinach, white wine (I prefer to use Decoy Chardonnay and enjoy the rest of the bottle to serve with the soup), basil pesto and season with pepper to taste. Let ingredients come together for an additional 10-20 minutes or until the spinach has changed color to a dark leafy green.

Serve the soup hot, with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and slices of crusty bread. Enjoy! This flavorful and comforting soup will become a staple in your house. Remember, this minestrone soup is easy to make and is sure to please the entire family. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Mom's favorite minestrone soup recipe is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. It's a hearty soup made with a variety of vegetables, beans, broth and optional pancetta. This soup is so versatile and can be easily customized depending on your taste preferences. Feel free to make it all your own.

For a creamier texture, add a ½ cup of heavy cream to the broth before adding the vegetables. If you are looking for a heartier soup, you can add ½ cup of cooked quinoa or barley to the soup with the vegetables. For a protein packed version, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans. To give the soup a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the broth. If you want to make a vegan version, add in extra vegetables like butternut squash or green beans, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the pancetta. You can also add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the broth to give it a spicier flavor. For an extra flavor boost, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or oregano or an additional tomato paste.

This soup is sure to please everyone at the table! Enjoy Mom's favorite minestrone soup recipe with a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of your favorite white wine.

Other Soups & Bread Recipes to Make

Italian Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup

The Perfect Beginners Sourdough Bread Recipe for Delicious Homemade Bread

Garlic & Herb Focaccia Bread