Warm, comforting, and bursting with colorful vegetables, this Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup is the kind of meal that makes you feel nourished with every spoonful. It’s the ultimate go-to when you’re craving something hearty yet light, and perfect for using up pantry staples and leftover produce. Whether you’re dodging the cold weather or just want a satisfying plant-based meal, this soup hits all the right notes.

This version of minestrone stays true to its Italian roots while giving you flexibility. It’s naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free or vegan with a few small tweaks. The flavors come together beautifully in one pot, simmering gently until everything is tender and delicious. From the rich tomato base to the fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables, it’s a bowlful of comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup

This recipe doesn’t just check the box for healthy eating—it’s also incredibly tasty. It comes together quickly and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Plus, it’s great for meal prep. You can make a big pot and enjoy it throughout the week, knowing you’re getting fiber, vitamins, and wholesome plant-based goodness in every bite.

The other big win? It’s endlessly adaptable. Toss in a different bean, pasta shape, or vegetable based on what you have on hand. It’s the kind of recipe that encourages creativity and zero waste.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Minestrone Soup?

Traditionally, small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work perfectly in minestrone. They soak up the broth without overpowering the vegetables. If you’re going gluten-free, opt for chickpea pasta or a brown rice variety. Just be sure to cook it separately and stir it in before serving to keep it from getting mushy.

Ingredients for the Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup

Name: Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 3/4 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow); 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

This soup celebrates simple ingredients coming together to create something magical. You likely have most of these in your pantry or fridge already.

Olive oil
Yellow onion
Carrots
Celery
Garlic
Zucchini
Green beans
Canned diced tomatoes
Cannellini beans
Vegetable broth
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Bay leaf
Salt and pepper
Small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
Fresh spinach
Lemon juice

Every ingredient here adds depth. From the base aromatics to the beans for protein and pasta for heartiness, it’s a well-rounded meal that satisfies.

How To Make the Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot. Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Veggies and Spices

Stir in the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, and drained cannellini beans. Sprinkle in dried oregano, dried basil, and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Simmer

Add the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the soup simmers, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the veggies are soft, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh spinach and cooked pasta. Let it wilt for a minute. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

How to Store and Serve This Minestrone Soup

This soup is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. It serves 6 generous portions. If you plan to have leftovers, store the pasta separately to avoid sogginess. Keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it (without pasta) for up to 2 months.

When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to bring back the original consistency. It’s best served warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

What to Serve With Minestrone Soup?

Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast

Nothing beats dunking a warm piece of bread into your bowl.

Classic Caprese Salad

The fresh tomatoes and mozzarella bring a beautiful contrast to the soup’s warmth. Classic Caprese Salad Recipe

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted veggies like asparagus complement the light nature of this soup. Roasted Asparagus Recipe

Lemon Truffles

For a sweet ending, something light and citrusy pairs perfectly. Lemon Truffles Recipe

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

If you want something softer than crusty bread, naan is an excellent option. Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Cottage Cheese Egg Bites

These are protein-packed and make the soup a full meal. Cottage Cheese Egg Bites

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup, try out these other cozy favorites:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a rich and savory twist.
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon if you’re in the mood for seafood comfort.
Roasted Zucchini and Squash Recipe when you’re craving more veggies.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a luscious tomato-based bowl.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for something decadent and indulgent.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use kale instead of spinach? Did you try chickpea pasta or go classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Easy & Healthy Minestrone Soup is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor and satisfying comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals ahead of time, this soup delivers every single time. It’s hearty, nourishing, and ready to warm you up from the inside out.