Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup

Name: Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Recipes

Warm up this winter with a hearty bowl of Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup, packed with seasonal vegetables and flavorful herbs.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-29T16:07:27.660Z

This Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth to cold days. With a medley of fresh vegetables and a savory broth, it's the perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with nutritious vegetables for a healthy meal
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

Nutritional Benefits of Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a powerhouse of nutrition, making it an excellent choice for those looking to boost their health during the colder months. Packed with a variety of vegetables, each bowl delivers essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports vision and immune function, while green beans provide a good source of fiber and vitamin C. This soup is not only comforting but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Moreover, the cannellini beans in this recipe add a hearty dose of protein and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding digestion. Incorporating legumes into your meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels, making this soup a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain their energy throughout the day. This combination of ingredients ensures that every bowl is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Customizing Your Minestrone

One of the best aspects of minestrone soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your personal tastes or dietary restrictions. If you prefer a different variety of beans, feel free to substitute black beans or kidney beans for the cannellini. Additionally, if you have leftover vegetables in your fridge, such as bell peppers or spinach, toss them in for added flavor and nutrition.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs; fresh basil or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. Customizing this recipe not only makes it your own but also helps you use what you have on hand, reducing food waste.

Storing and Reheating Minestrone Soup

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that minestrone soup stores very well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep, ensuring you always have a nutritious and comforting meal ready to go.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious and warming soup.

Ingredients for Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Add Garlic and Zucchini

Add minced garlic and diced zucchini to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Stir in green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Why Fresh Herbs Matter

Fresh herbs are a game-changer in any soup recipe, and this Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is no exception. Adding fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but also infuses the dish with a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can't replicate. Fresh herbs are rich in antioxidants and can elevate the nutritional profile of your meal, making them an essential part of your cooking routine.

To maximize the flavor of your soup, consider adding fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures that the vibrant flavors remain intact. For a fragrant twist, you could even try adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme right before serving, enhancing the overall aroma and taste experience of your minestrone.

Pairing Suggestions

Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can enhance your meal experience. A crusty slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich broth. For a lighter option, consider serving the soup alongside a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast.

If you're hosting a gathering, this soup can serve as a fantastic starter to a larger meal. Pair it with Italian favorites like lasagna or risotto for a cozy dinner that your guests will love. The hearty nature of the soup makes it a great option for a main course as well, especially when accompanied by a glass of red wine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pot.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan, just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan as well.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.