Spring Minestrone Soup

Name: Spring Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Recipes

I love making Spring Minestrone Soup when the weather starts to warm up and vegetables are at their freshest. There's something incredibly satisfying about throwing together seasonal produce with flavorful broth. Each bowl bursts with the colors and tastes of spring, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, the quick preparation time makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights when I still want something healthy and comforting.

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:01:35.787Z

When I first tried my hand at making minestrone, I was amazed at how versatile it could be. Each ingredient can be swapped based on what’s in season, which allows me to keep the recipe fresh and exciting. One time, I even added a splash of lemon juice right before serving, which elevated the entire dish with a delightful zing.

To get the best flavor, I suggest sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth. This method enhances their natural sweetness and creates a depth that truly makes the soup shine. I can’t recommend it highly enough!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors of spring vegetables
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Nutritious, light yet filling for a wholesome meal

Selecting Fresh Ingredients

When making Spring Minestrone Soup, your ingredient choices can greatly impact the flavor and freshness of the dish. Opt for seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or peas in addition to the listed carrots and zucchini. These not only enhance the spring essence but also add a vibrant touch to your soup. Visit your local farmers' market to find high-quality produce that’s often picked at its peak ripeness, ensuring maximum flavor in every spoonful.

While the recipe calls for fresh spinach, you can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a heartier green. Keep in mind that spinach wilts down more quickly than tougher greens like kale, so add any sturdy greens about five minutes earlier than spinach to achieve the right texture.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve the best texture in your minestrone, be mindful of how you cut your vegetables. Aim for uniform dice sizes to ensure even cooking. The carrots and celery should be chopped small enough to soften quickly, while green beans should retain a slight crunch for contrast. This balance of textures adds interest to your soup, making each bite a delightful experience.

As you sauté the onions and garlic, cook them until they are golden and fragrant. This step develops the base flavors of the soup and enhances the overall aroma. Overcrowding the pot can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, so if your pot is small, consider sautéing in batches to achieve that glossy finish before adding the other vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and healthy ingredients to create a delightful spring minestrone soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you are set to make a deliciously warm bowl of spring minestrone soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your soup:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in carrots, celery, and zucchini, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Cook Green Beans and Spinach

Add the green beans and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy warm!

Your hearty minestrone is now ready to serve! Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked beans or pasta during the last few minutes of cooking. This soup is incredibly adaptable!

Make-Ahead and Storage

Spring Minestrone Soup can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you prefer, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. However, consider leaving out the spinach and adding it fresh when reheating. Freezing may alter the texture of the spinach, making it limp upon thawing. Portioning the soup into individual servings can also make reheating quick and convenient.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Spring Minestrone Soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh salad on the side. This will not only emphasize the soup’s vibrant flavors but also provide textural contrast with the crunchy bread or crisp greens. You might even want to sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of richness and umami.

Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving. This enhances the soup's spring freshness and adds a lovely brightness that complements the vegetables beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add different vegetables to the minestrone?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover minestrone can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free pasta or omit it completely.

→ Can I freeze the minestrone soup?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.