Spring Minestrone White Beans (Printable)

Nourishing soup with white beans, asparagus, and fresh vegetables—perfect for a light, flavorful meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 1 small zucchini, diced
07 - 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
08 - 1 cup frozen or fresh peas
09 - 2 cups baby spinach or chopped Swiss chard

→ Beans & Pasta

10 - 1 can (14 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
11 - 3/4 cup small pasta, such as ditalini or small shells

→ Liquid & Seasoning

12 - 5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
13 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
15 - 1 bay leaf
16 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
17 - Zest of 1 small lemon
18 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Optional Garnishes

19 - Grated Parmesan cheese
20 - Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add diced zucchini and cook for 2 additional minutes.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth and add thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
05 - Stir in white beans and pasta. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
06 - Add asparagus and peas. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until pasta and vegetables are tender.
07 - Stir in spinach, lemon zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until greens are wilted.
08 - Remove bay leaf. Ladle soup into bowls. Top with Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together faster than you'd think, but tastes like you've been tending a pot all afternoon.
  • Every spoonful feels gentle and nourishing without being boring or dietary—it's just honest food.
  • The lemon zest at the end does something almost magical, turning everything bright without tasting citrusy.
02 -
  • The pasta will continue absorbing liquid even after you've finished cooking, so if you're making this ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving—your soup stays balanced instead of turning into porridge.
  • Lemon zest is non-negotiable; it transforms this from nice to memorable, and you can add juice at the table for people who want more brightness.
03 -
  • Make a double batch and freeze half without the pasta—add fresh pasta when you reheat it and everything tastes like you just made it.
  • If your asparagus is especially thick, split the larger pieces lengthwise so they cook evenly and don't have woody centers.
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