Save A vibrant nourishing Italian-inspired soup loaded with winter greens hearty vegetables and protein-rich quinoa for a modern twist on a classic
I first made this minestrone on a chilly weekend craving something wholesome and comforting. The quinoa adds a unique heartiness while winter greens bring extra nutrition and a vibrant touch
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow onion: 1 medium diced
- Carrots: 2 medium peeled and sliced
- Celery stalks: 2 sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Fennel bulb: 1 small chopped (optional)
- Zucchini: 1 medium diced
- Winter greens: 1 cup chopped (kale Swiss chard or spinach)
- Quinoa: 1/2 cup rinsed
- Cannellini beans: 1 can 15 oz / 425 g drained and rinsed
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can 14 oz / 400 g
- Vegetable broth: 5 cups low-sodium
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bay leaf: 1
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: (optional omit for vegan/dairy-free)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion carrots celery and fennel (if using). Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables soften
- Add garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Combine main ingredients:
- Add zucchini quinoa cannellini beans diced tomatoes vegetable broth oregano thyme and bay leaf. Mix well
- Simmer soup:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes stirring occasionally
- Add greens:
- Add winter greens and simmer another 7–10 minutes. Quinoa should be tender and greens wilted
- Finish soup:
- Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired
Save This soup has become a family favorite on cold nights bringing everyone together for a warm nourishing meal at the table
Required Tools
Large soup pot wooden spoon chefs knife cutting board and ladle are all you need for easy preparation
Allergen Information
Contains none inherently but check broth and cheese for allergens if using Parmesan. Double-check canned goods and broth labels for hidden gluten or dairy
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 285 calories 6 g total fat 45 g carbohydrates and 12 g protein
Save Enjoy a nourishing bowl of minestrone with quinoa and winter greens to warm up your week and boost your nutrition
Cooking Guide
- → Can I substitute the winter greens?
Yes, you can replace kale, Swiss chard, or spinach with any sturdy leafy greens you prefer without changing the dish's essence.
- → Is quinoa essential in the mixture?
Quinoa adds protein and texture, but you can use other grains like barley or farro for variation.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking to introduce a gentle heat that complements the flavors.
- → What are good bean alternatives?
Chickpeas or kidney beans work well as substitutes for cannellini beans, offering similar texture and protein.
- → Can I omit the cheese topping?
Yes, simply skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative for dairy-free or vegan options.