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Homemade Healthy Minestrone Soup photo

Healthy Minestrone Soup

This Healthy Minestrone Soup is a warm, hearty delight! Packed with vibrant veggies and quinoa, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion (about 1 small onion)
  • 1 cup diced celery (about 3 celery stalks)
  • 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cans (14.5-ounce) fire-roasted diced tomatoes (preferably San Marzano or Muir Glen)
  • 6 cups vegetable stock (such as Swanson)
  • 3/4 cup tri-colored quinoa
  • 1 can (15-ounce) Great Northern white beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup diced zucchini
  • 2 cups coarsely chopped baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the vegetables.
  3. Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Add the tri-colored quinoa, Great Northern beans, frozen corn, and frozen peas. Stir well and let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through and tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaves and stir in the chopped baby spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon for brightness and flavor.
  6. Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • This soup can be made in a slow cooker; sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables to keep it fresh and exciting!
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.