Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup

Name: Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups kale, chopped; 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

Warm up with this hearty and nutritious Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup, filled with seasonal vegetables and aromatic herbs.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T15:26:28.478Z

This Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for cozy nights in. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's a great way to enjoy the season's bounty!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A comforting and warming meal for cold winter nights
Loaded with colorful vegetables and wholesome ingredients
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or leftovers

      

A Nutrient-Packed Delight

Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients that your body craves during the colder months. This soup features a variety of vegetables, each contributing essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, kale is a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K, while carrots provide a healthy dose of beta-carotene, which is great for your skin and vision. By incorporating these wholesome ingredients, you’re not just warming up; you’re nourishing your body from the inside out.

The inclusion of cannellini beans in this recipe adds a protein punch, making this minestrone a filling option for both lunch and dinner. Beans are also rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling satisfied longer. This soup is a great way to meet your daily vegetable intake while enjoying a comforting meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is its suitability for meal prep. Whether you're looking to streamline your weeknight dinners or pack nutritious lunches for work, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort throughout the week.

Additionally, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Simply portion it out into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You’ll have a hearty meal ready in minutes, making it a great go-to option for busy days.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the beauties of this Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize it based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. If you love a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Prefer a different vegetable? Swap out the green beans for peas or add in some diced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

You can also experiment with different types of pasta or even use whole grain options for added health benefits. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it uniquely yours while still enjoying the comforting essence of a classic minestrone soup.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup:

Vegetable Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups kale, chopped
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta and kale to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup!

Now that your soup is ready, it's time to enjoy this hearty dish!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent any condensation that could lead to sogginess. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating, it's best to do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. This way, you'll enjoy a warm, cozy meal reminiscent of its freshly made glory.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving your Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup with crusty bread or a side salad. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the soup. You can also sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of pesto on top for an extra layer of flavor.

If you’re looking to elevate the dining experience, serve the soup in a bread bowl. This not only adds a fun twist but also makes for an edible serving vessel that soaks up the delicious broth. Whatever you choose, this soup is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Variations to Try

While the traditional version of Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is delightful, there are many variations you can explore. For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked sausage or diced chicken for additional protein. You could also experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to change the flavor profile.

For those who enjoy a creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding back the pasta and kale. This creates a rich and satisfying consistency that’s perfect for cold winter nights. Don’t hesitate to get creative with spices as well; a hint of smoked paprika or thyme can add a delightful twist to the classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This minestrone soup is completely vegetarian and can be made vegan by ensuring the broth is plant-based.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes!