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; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Holiday & Seasonal Feasts

Warm up with this hearty and nutritious Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup, filled with seasonal vegetables and comforting flavors.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-29T15:22:27.801Z

This Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with vegetables, beans, and a rich broth, it's a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling with an array of colorful vegetables
Perfectly seasoned for a cozy winter meal
Easy to make and great for meal prep

      

The Benefits of Seasonal Vegetables

Winter is the perfect season to indulge in hearty vegetables that are packed with nutrients. Ingredients like carrots, celery, and zucchini not only add flavor but also provide essential vitamins and minerals. These seasonal veggies are known for their high fiber content, which aids digestion and keeps you full for longer. Using fresh produce in your Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup ensures you are getting the maximum health benefits, making it a guilt-free comfort food option during the colder months.

Incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables also boosts the visual appeal of the dish, making it inviting and appetizing. The vibrant hues of the ingredients signify a range of nutrients that contribute to overall health. Eating a rainbow of vegetables can enhance your immune system, which is particularly important during winter when illnesses are more prevalent.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup is its suitability for meal prep. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for easy access throughout the week. This means you can enjoy a warm, nutritious meal in minutes, perfect for busy days when time is of the essence. Simply reheat and serve for a quick lunch or dinner.

Additionally, the flavors of the soup intensify as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. This makes it an ideal dish for those who love to batch cook or want to ensure they have healthy options readily available. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies and nourishes.

Customizing Your Minestrone

One of the great things about minestrone soup is its versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some leafy greens? Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients. If you prefer a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or even whole grains like quinoa or barley.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Experimenting with different herbs or spices can also change the character of the soup, allowing you to create a new version each time. The flexibility of this recipe makes it a favorite in many households.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Broth

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before starting the soup for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Stir in the garlic and sauté for another minute.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the zucchini, green beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your warm and hearty Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup!

Storage Tips

To store your Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning the soup into individual servings for easy reheating. Label containers with the date for freshness, ensuring you enjoy this delicious meal at its best.

When reheating, you may notice the soup thickens slightly. If this happens, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine, and warm over low heat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This Winter Minestrone Veggie Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread is also a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein source such as grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas. These additions can enhance the nutritional value of your meal while making it more filling. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a touch of creaminess and flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for cannellini beans?

You can use any white beans such as navy beans or great northern beans.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and avoid adding pasta.

→ Can I add meat to this soup?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.