Minestrone with Quinoa & Greens (Printable)

Nourishing Italian soup with quinoa, winter greens, and fresh vegetables for a wholesome meal.

# What You'll 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 - ½ 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 - ½ 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, omit for vegan/dairy-free)

# How to make it:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, celery, and fennel if using. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
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, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine thoroughly.
04 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Stir in chopped winter greens and continue simmering for an additional 7 to 10 minutes until quinoa is tender and greens are wilted.
06 - Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve garnished with chopped fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Recipe Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Hearty nutritious and vegetarian
  • Adaptable with various greens and beans
02 -
  • Check broth and Parmesan for hidden allergens if avoiding gluten or dairy
  • Recipe is naturally vegetarian gluten-free and high in protein
03 -
  • Rinse quinoa thoroughly before adding to prevent bitterness
  • Add greens near the end to retain their vibrant color and texture
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