Minestrone Verde: A Fresh and Hearty Green Italian Soup

Minestrone Verde is a vibrant celebration of green vegetables, fresh herbs, and wholesome ingredients, all coming together in a comforting bowl. Unlike traditional minestrone, this green version focuses on leafy greens, zucchini, peas, and herbs, creating a light yet satisfying soup that nourishes both body and soul.

Every spoonful delivers layers of flavor—from tender vegetables to subtly seasoned broth, with hints of garlic, onion, and Parmesan adding depth. Perfect for chilly evenings, weeknight dinners, or a healthy lunch, Minestrone Verde is not only visually appealing with its bright green hues but also versatile enough to adapt to what you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients for Minestrone Verde are fresh, wholesome, and easy to source. Below is a table with approximate calorie counts per ingredient.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Olive oil	2 tbsp	240
Onion, chopped	1 medium	45
Garlic cloves, minced	3 cloves	15
Zucchini, diced	2 medium	66
Spinach, fresh	4 cups	28
Green beans, trimmed	1 cup	35
Peas, fresh or frozen	1 cup	117
Celery, chopped	1 cup	20
Vegetable or chicken broth	6 cups	60
Cannellini beans, drained	1 can (15 oz)	210
Fresh parsley, chopped	1/4 cup	5
Basil, fresh	1/4 cup	1
Lemon juice	1 tbsp	4
Salt & black pepper	To taste	0
Grated Parmesan (optional)	1/4 cup	110

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the aromatics
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the vegetables
   Add diced zucchini, chopped celery, green beans, and peas. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender.
3. Add broth and beans
   Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Add the drained cannellini beans. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Incorporate leafy greens
   Stir in spinach, parsley, and basil. Simmer for another 5 minutes until greens are wilted and flavors meld together.
5. Finish with seasoning
   Add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan just before serving.
6. Serve hot
   Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately, accompanied by crusty bread or a light salad.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Grain addition: Stir in cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for extra texture.
• Vegan option: Skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
• Seasonal swaps: Kale, Swiss chard, or broccoli can replace or complement spinach.
• Extra flavor: A splash of white wine during cooking or a drizzle of good olive oil at the end enhances depth.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220–250
Protein	12 g
Carbohydrates	30 g
Fat	7 g
Fiber	9 g
Sodium	Depends on broth used

Minestrone Verde is a nutrient-dense, low-calorie option rich in fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein from beans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Minestrone Verde hot in deep bowls, with a slice of crusty Italian bread, garlic toast, or focaccia on the side. A light green salad or roasted vegetables complement the soup beautifully. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

FAQs

1. Can I make Minestrone Verde ahead of time?

Yes! Minestrone Verde tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

2. Can I freeze Minestrone Verde?

Freezing is possible, but leafy greens like spinach may become mushy. For best results, freeze the soup without greens and add them fresh when reheating. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

3. Can I make Minestrone Verde vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful.

4. What vegetables can I add or substitute?

Kale, Swiss chard, broccoli, zucchini, green beans, peas, and even asparagus work beautifully. Seasonal vegetables make this soup versatile and adaptable year-round.

5. Can I add pasta or grains?

Yes, cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa can be added for extra texture and substance. Add pasta in the last 5 minutes of cooking so it doesn’t become mushy.

Conclusion

Minestrone Verde proves that healthy eating can be colorful, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Bright green vegetables, tender beans, and aromatic herbs come together to create a nourishing soup that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Its simplicity, flexibility, and comforting flavors make it a recipe to keep in your kitchen rotation year-round.