Easy Minestrone Soup Loaded With Vegetables

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

📝 Ingredients List

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, sliced into half-moons
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups high-quality low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 cups chopped fresh zucchini
• 1 cup small shell or ditalini pasta
• 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup smoked beef bits (substitution for traditional ham)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the garlic and smoked beef bits (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. 🥘
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, chickpeas, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Add the pasta and zucchini to the pot. Cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. ✨

💡 Pro Tips

• Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Note: Pasta tends to absorb broth, so add a splash of water when reheating.
• Substitutions: Feel free to swap chickpeas for navy beans or use kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.
• Smoked Flavor: Using high-quality smoked beef provides the depth of flavor typically found in pork-based minestrone while keeping it lean.

FAQ

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, but it is best to freeze the soup without the cooked pasta, as pasta can become mushy upon thawing.

Is this recipe vegan? If you omit the optional smoked beef bits, this entire recipe is naturally vegan and full of plant-based protein.