Veggie-Packed White Bean Minestrone

 Here's a recipe for a Veggie-Packed White Bean Minestrone, a hearty and nourishing soup full of vegetables, white beans, and flavorful broth.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 cup green beans, chopped into 1-inch pieces

1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for extra warmth)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup small pasta (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional Garnishes:

Grated vegan parmesan or regular parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Add the other vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Add the beans, tomatoes, and broth: Add the white beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

4. Cook the pasta: While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. (This helps prevent the pasta from becoming too mushy in the soup.)

5. Finish the soup: Stir in the cooked pasta and fresh spinach or kale into the soup. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the greens are wilted and everything is heated through.

6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice for brightness if needed.

7. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated parmesan (if desired) and fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy!

This Veggie-Packed White Bean Minestrone is comforting, full of nutrients, and perfect for any season!