Minestrone with Quinoa Greens (Print version)

Vibrant soup with quinoa, winter greens, and vegetables delivering a nourishing, wholesome flavor.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
04 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 small fennel bulb, chopped (optional)
07 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
08 - 1 cup chopped winter greens (kale, Swiss chard, or spinach)

→ Grains & Legumes

09 - 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
10 - 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

11 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
12 - 5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

→ Seasonings

13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - 1 bay leaf
16 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ To Serve

17 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
18 - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

# How to Make:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and chopped fennel if using. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until vegetables soften.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add diced zucchini, rinsed quinoa, drained cannellini beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, dried oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
04 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Incorporate chopped winter greens and continue to simmer for 7 to 10 minutes until quinoa is tender and greens have wilted.
06 - Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Hearty, nutrient-rich, and filling for cold nights
  • High in plant-based protein and naturally gluten-free
02 -
  • Double-check canned goods and broth labels for hidden gluten or dairy if needed
  • This soup keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days
03 -
  • Rinse quinoa thoroughly for best texture
  • Add greens at the end for vibrant color and nutrition
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