Name: Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon thyme; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; ¾ cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Optional garnish: fresh parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan

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If you have ever craved a bowl of hearty, soul-warming soup, then this Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, tender beans, and small pasta shapes swimming in a savory tomato broth, this dish captures everything we love about classic Italian cooking—comfort, simplicity, and vibrant flavors that brighten up every spoonful. Whether you’re after a nourishing lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup will fill your heart and belly with all the good stuff, no matter the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Top view of various fresh ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. Included are white bowls with bright orange carrot slices, chunky red diced tomatoes in juice, and plump white beans. A wooden bowl holds small yellow pasta rings with a wooden spoon inside. Fresh green beans and sliced light green celery are also visible, along with a whole yellow onion and two garlic cloves on a wooden cutting board. Small white dishes carry dried herbs and spices, with fresh green parsley and two bay leaves nearby. A glass measuring cup contains light brown broth. A white and blue striped cloth is partially under the tomato bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of texture, flavor, and freshness. Every item on this list is essential to making the soup both satisfying and colorful, and the familiar pantry staples ensure anyone can whip it up with little fuss.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings a fragrant, fruity richness that starts the soup on the right foot.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweet and savory undertones when softened.
2 carrots, chopped: Infuse gentle sweetness and lovely orange color.
2 celery stalks, chopped: Provide a subtle crunch and aromatic depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Elevate the soup’s savoriness with a punch of garlicky warmth.
1 zucchini, diced: Offers delicate texture and a mild, fresh flavor.
1 cup green beans, chopped: Add vibrant green hues along with a bit of snap.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a herbaceous, slightly peppery note.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Infuses sweet, slightly minty flavor that complements the tomato base.
½ teaspoon thyme: Lends an earthy aroma to balance the soup’s brightness.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat and spice.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: The heart of the broth, delivering tang and sweetness.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds body.
6 cups vegetable broth: The flavorful base that ties everything together.
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Pack protein and creamy texture into each spoonful.
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Provide extra heartiness and a velvety bite.
¾ cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow): Give the soup a delightful chew and bulk it up satisfyingly.
2 cups fresh spinach or kale: Add beautiful leafy greens and a boost of nutrients.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens all the robust flavors with a fresh, zesty finish.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, basil, or grated Parmesan: Perfect for adding reminder-worthy aromas and taste at serving.

How to Make Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté these together for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and their sweet aromatics start to fill the kitchen. This foundational step creates the flavor backbone and ensures each spoonful has that satisfying veggie softness with a slight bite.

Step 2: Build Onions and Garlic Layer

Next, toss in the minced garlic, diced zucchini, and chopped green beans. Stir everything well and let it cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. This step gives the soup a lively freshness by combining the heartier vegetables with bright, mild flavors that complement the later tomato and bean additions.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Seasonings

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture so the herbs release their full aromatic potential, coating every piece of vegetable with those classic Italian flavors. These herbs are what transform simple ingredients into the comforting, familiar soup we all cherish.

Step 4: Introduce Tomato and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, add the tomato paste, and pour the vegetable broth into the pot. Stir everything together so the tomato paste dissolves smoothly into the broth. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to concentrate and marry beautifully into a rich, vibrant base.

Step 5: Cook Beans and Pasta

Now it’s time to add the drained kidney beans and cannellini beans, then stir in the small pasta shapes. Continue to simmer until the pasta is tender but not mushy, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This step ensures the beans stay intact and creamy inside the soup while the pasta absorbs all that flavorful broth.

Step 6: Finish with Greens and Lemon

The final touch is folding in the fresh spinach or kale, letting it wilt gently into the hot soup. Then squeeze in the lemon juice which brightens the entire dish, balancing the richness with a light, citrusy zing. Give the soup a last taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before turning off the heat.

How to Serve Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe

A white pot filled with a thick soup showing many layers and textures. The top layer is a mix of small pasta rings in pale yellow, soft light orange carrot slices, and dark green zucchini pieces. Below these, you can see bits of light brown cooked chicken mixed with bright red tomato chunks and darker green leafy vegetables. The soup broth is clear to light brown, filling the gaps. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, with a white and gray striped cloth and a small bowl holding some sauce nearby. A woman's hand is holding the pot handle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe to the next level, top each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for added herbal freshness. For a richer experience, grate some Parmesan cheese on top—the salty depth it brings is just heavenly when it melts into the hot soup. These simple garnishes make the presentation pop and add extra layers of flavor right at serving.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, such as a warm baguette or garlic bread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of broth. A light green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette also complements the comforting richness of the minestrone, keeping the meal balanced and refreshing. You could even serve a cheese plate or roasted vegetables alongside to create a complete and satisfying dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe in small espresso cups or mini mugs at a party for a cozy appetizer. Layer it in clear glass bowls to showcase the beautiful colors of the beans, pasta, and greens, making it almost too pretty to eat. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of pesto on top before serving adds a luxe touch that will wow guests and family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days when stored in an airtight container. Because the soup thickens as it sits, give it a good stir and add a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating to restore its lovely consistency.

Freezing

This soup also freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop, adding extra broth if necessary to loosen it up.

Reheating

Reheat Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has become too thick, simply add vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired texture. Heat until warmed through, then serve with any fresh garnishes or bread as you like.

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables in this Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe?

Absolutely! One of the great things about minestrone is its flexibility. Feel free to swap or add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even diced potatoes based on what you have available or what you enjoy most.

Is this Minestrone Soup suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan if you skip the Parmesan garnish or use a vegan cheese alternative. Its hearty beans and fresh veggies provide plenty of nourishment without any animal products.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal because they cook quickly and blend easily with the soup’s texture. For a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether.

How can I make my minestrone soup richer in flavor?

Adding a Parmesan rind during the simmering phase adds wonderful depth and umami to the broth. Just remember to remove it before serving. Also, fresh herbs or a splash of good quality olive oil before serving can really enhance the flavor complexity.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a gathering?

Definitely! Minestrone soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Make it a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat just before serving for maximum convenience and deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

This Minestrone Soup With Fresh Vegetables Recipe has a special way of bringing warmth and comfort to any table, whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend meal. Its vibrant ingredients and rich, hearty broth prove that nourishing food can be both simple and extraordinary. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this lovely soup as much as I do—it truly is a timeless classic that never fails to delight.