Simple Spring Minestrone Soup

Name: Simple Spring Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 cup asparagus, chopped; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Home Cooking

I love making Simple Spring Minestrone Soup during the warmer months. This recipe is a delightful way to embrace the fresh flavors of spring with vibrant vegetables and nutritious beans. Each spoonful is packed with garden-fresh goodness that not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body. The lovely colors and varying textures make it visually appealing, and it’s a fantastic way to use up any seasonal produce. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:19:09.500Z

When I first experimented with this Simple Spring Minestrone Soup, I wanted to highlight the freshness of spring vegetables. I found that using a mix of carrots, peas, and asparagus not only brings a lovely pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile. The crunchy textures combined with a hearty broth make this soup comforting yet refreshing.

Another tip I've discovered is to add a splash of lemon juice right before serving. This acidity brightens up the broth and elevates the taste, making each bowl feel like a celebration of the season. I always use seasonal produce to keep the soup vibrant and enjoyable!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, vibrant flavors that scream spring
Packed with nutritious veggies and protein-rich beans
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight meals

      

Ingredient Benefits

The vegetables in this Simple Spring Minestrone Soup aren't just colorful; they are brimming with nutrients. For instance, carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, supporting vision and immune function. Zucchini, with its high water content, adds a refreshing crunch that balances well with the creaminess of cannellini beans. Each vegetable plays a significant role, ensuring that every bowl is not only satisfying but also health-enhancing.

Fresh peas are a key ingredient that provide a sweet burst of flavor alongside their bright green color. If you can't find fresh peas, frozen peas work perfectly too—just add them in the last few minutes of cooking to preserve their vibrant color and delicate texture. Including protein-rich cannellini beans not only makes this soup heartier but also elevates its nutritional profile, helping to keep you full and satisfied.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onion and garlic, be careful not to let them brown too much, as this can develop a bitter flavor. You want them to be soft and translucent, signaling that they have released their sweet flavors without any char. Setting the heat to medium is ideal; if using a non-stick pot, a touch of water can be added to prevent sticking if the oil seems insufficient.

Adding the chopped vegetables in stages helps them cook evenly. The harder vegetables, like carrots and green beans, should be added first, followed by quicker cooking ones like zucchini and asparagus. This technique allows each vegetable to retain its distinct texture, ensuring that the soup is not mushy but has a delightful bite. Aim to cook the mixed veggies just until they are bright and tender, usually no more than five minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your soup perfect!

Vegetables and Herbs

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 cup asparagus, chopped
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use the freshest ingredients you can find for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Remaining Vegetables

Stir in the diced carrots, zucchini, green beans, and asparagus. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour in Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cannellini beans and thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Finish with Peas and Seasoning

Add the fresh peas and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

Add Lemon Juice and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice just before serving and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your healthy, vibrant spring soup!

Serve hot, and don’t forget to pair it with some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering. Just remember to remove it before serving.

Storage and Reheating

This soup is fantastic for meal prep. After it cools, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the flavors vibrant, consider adding fresh parsley and lemon juice just before serving rather than mixing them in during storage. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat; this helps preserve the quality of the vegetables and prevents them from becoming overly soft.

If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so without the peas and lemon added. Freeze for up to three months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat gently, adding fresh peas and lemon juice just before serving for that fresh spring flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the experience of this spring minestrone, serve it alongside a crusty loaf of bread or a light salad. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate the flavor, adding a creamy, salty contrast. For a bit of heat, consider offering red pepper flakes at the table—this adds a punch that many enjoy.

Variations of this soup can be endless—feel free to swap in other seasonal veggies or even add grains like quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition. Experiment with fresh herbs too; dill or basil could complement the spring flavors nicely, depending on your preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! You can replace fresh vegetables with frozen, making this recipe even easier.

→ How can I make this soup creamy?

You can blend a portion of the soup to create a creamy texture without adding cream.

→ Can I add meat to this soup?

Absolutely! Cook some diced chicken or sausage in the pot before adding the vegetables for a heartier version.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.