A cozy, warm bowl of soup is exactly what many of us need during these cold days of winter. At Giolitti Deli, our favorite soup is the minestrone, which Italians have been enjoying for centuries. But how did this hearty soup make its way from Italy to your table in Maryland? It’s all due to the popularity of the soup and its versatile recipe. Read on to learn what makes a minestrone, and the best ways to enjoy your next bowl.
What Is Minestrone Soup?
Minestrone is a thick pasta- and vegetable-based soup. You can add any number of veggies and carbs you choose to make this pasty even heartier. The core ingredients, however, are often celery, onions, garlic, carrots, tomatoes, olive oil, and pasta, and it can often be topped with shredded parmesan. Because it tastes delicious with fresh bread on the side for dipping, every serving of minestrone at Giolitti Deli comes with a slice of bread.
The Italian Origins of Minestrone
Minestrone is one of the cornerstones of Italian cuisine, and may even be more widely dispersed and enjoyed throughout Italy than pasta. The soup was initially made from small things leftover from previous meals, combined so as not to waste perfectly good food. The soup was, therefore, a cheap, but very filling, option for everyday meals.
Gradually, the standard minestrone recipe changed, and by the 18th century, the word “minestrone” no longer implied a soup made from leftovers, and instead indicated the soup recipe we are now familiar with, which is made for its own sake. Additionally, the soup is now often a starter dish instead of the main course.
Minestrone Varieties
The minestrone recipes across Italy will vary depending on the available ingredients and seasons and can be vegetarian or meat-based, although Giolitti Deli’s version is vegetarian. The vegetables included vary with what is in season, so the flavors are their very best. The carb and veg-heavy soup will satisfy your hunger and keep you full for hours. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilled wintry day.
Authentic Italian Cuisine From Giolitti Deli
Giolitti Deli is a full-service Delicatessen in Annapolis, MD, specializing in authentic Italian cuisine. Founded in 1992, we use the freshest ingredients to make time-honed recipes from scratch, with no MSG or preservatives. We believe in real food and offer many healthy options, including vegetarian and vegan menu items. At Giolitti Deli, we make our own sauces, mozzarella, grilled and roasted vegetables, bread, pizza dough, and desserts, and our sandwiches, salads, pasta, pizza, and entrees are made to order. Owner Mary Giolitti has combined her passion for great food and fine wine to offer Annapolis a true taste of Italy!
Team members who also make the business possible include Manager Kathy Hunter, Manager and Catering Director Cheryl Molesky, Head Baker Porfirio Diaz, Chef Alfredo Escobar, and Deli Manager Noe Merino. To contact us, please visit our contact page or give us a call at 410.266.8600. Also, be sure to keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and our blog!
Tags: italian food, italian soup, minestrone, vegetable soup, vegetarian