Description
This cozy and hearty Minestrone Soup is the perfect healthy dinner or lunch idea for colder days. Packed with colorful vegetables, ditalini pasta, kidney beans, and simmered in a savory tomato broth, it’s a quick, one-pot meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you’re after a nutritious meal prep option or a delicious meatless dinner idea, this soup ticks every box. It’s a must-save for anyone looking for healthy food ideas, cozy soup recipes, or quick dinner solutions.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup green beans, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
3/4 cup ditalini pasta
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8–10 minutes.
2. Stir in potatoes and green beans. Cook for 3 more minutes, then add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
4. Lower the heat and simmer until potatoes are just tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Add kidney beans and pasta. Stir well and simmer until pasta is al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
6. Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with grated parmesan on top and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
If planning leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add just before serving to avoid soggy noodles.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven to avoid burning the tomato base.
Feel free to swap in other vegetables like corn, peas, or squash depending on season and preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: minestrone soup, vegetable soup, easy dinner, healthy soup, one pot meal, vegetarian recipe, food ideas, dinner ideas, soup recipe, quick meals