Vegetable Minestrone Soup Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable minestrone soup. This classic Italian soup is a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, tender beans, and hearty pasta, all simmered together in a flavorful broth.

Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a nourishing meal, minestrone is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this vegetable minestrone soup recipe is easy to follow and packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you energized.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up seasonal vegetables and create a colorful, nutrient-rich dish that the whole family will love.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything from why this recipe is a must-try, to the simple equipment you need, step-by-step instructions, and great tips to customize your soup. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetable minestrone soup is a hearty, healthy, and highly adaptable dish. Its rich flavors come from a combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a savory vegetable broth, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal that’s both filling and nutritious.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, making it budget-friendly and reducing waste.

It’s also a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into your diet without compromising on taste.

Additionally, this soup stores beautifully, so you can batch cook and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for a crowd, vegetable minestrone will never disappoint.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for rinsing beans and draining pasta)
• Grater (if using fresh Parmesan)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the diced zucchini and green beans. Cook for 3 more minutes, allowing the vegetables to mingle their flavors.
4. Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Add the small pasta to the soup. Continue to cook for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender but still al dente.
7. Stir in the fresh chopped spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.
9. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness.

Tips & Variations

“Minestrone soup is incredibly forgiving. Feel free to swap veggies based on what you have or prefer!”

• Vegetable swaps: Try adding diced potatoes, butternut squash, or kale for seasonal twists.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with quinoa or rice.
• Boost protein: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas along with or instead of cannellini beans.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a subtle heat.
• Make it creamier: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream just before serving.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a vibrant finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable minestrone soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread for dipping. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette.

To add more protein and variety to your meal, consider serving with a side of roasted chickpeas or a simple quinoa salad.

If you love hearty soups, you might also enjoy exploring other wholesome recipes like 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious or the comforting Best Vegetarian Creamy Soup Slow Cooker Recipes to Try.

For more vibrant, plant-based meals, check out our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Conclusion

Vegetable minestrone soup is a timeless, nourishing dish that fits perfectly into any season. With its colorful vegetables, tender beans, and comforting broth, it offers a satisfying meal that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Its versatility allows you to personalize it endlessly, making it ideal for using up fresh produce and tailoring it to your dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based meal without sacrificing flavor.

We hope this recipe warms your heart and fills your belly, encouraging you to explore more vibrant vegetarian dishes.

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