Spring Minestrone Soup
Highlighted under: Simple Recipes
I love making Spring Minestrone Soup because it beautifully captures the essence of the season. Fresh vegetables like asparagus, peas, and spinach bring vibrant flavors to this dish, making it light yet satisfying. With every spoonful, the combination of herbs and the rich broth elevates the overall taste. It’s perfect for those spring days when you want something comforting but not too heavy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy some nutritious ingredients while warming you up from the inside out!
When I first attempted this Spring Minestrone Soup, I wanted to celebrate the abundance of fresh produce available during the season. I experimented with various vegetables and herbs, ultimately finding that a blend of asparagus, peas, and zucchini created a delightful medley of flavors. I discovered that adding a dash of lemon juice at the end really brightens the soup, making it even more refreshing.
I like to serve this soup with a crusty piece of bread on the side. It’s a complete meal that not only warms the belly but also showcases the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Each ingredient plays a role, and the freshness shines through every bowl!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A vibrant medley of seasonal vegetables bursting with flavor
- Light yet filling, perfect for a spring gathering
- Easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights
Understanding the Ingredients
In this Spring Minestrone Soup, the interplay of fresh vegetables not only enhances flavor but also provides a rainbow of nutrients. For instance, asparagus is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, making it a fantastic spring ingredient. When choosing asparagus, look for bright green stalks that are firm to the touch. This freshness can elevate the dish's overall taste, delivering a delightful crunch in every bite.
The herbs in this recipe, particularly oregano and basil, play a crucial role in defining the soup's flavor profile. I recommend using fresh herbs if available; however, dried versions are perfectly adequate too. Fresh herbs, when added towards the end of cooking, help maintain their vibrant flavor. Watch for the basil to turn a bright green as you stir it into the simmering soup, which signifies optimal flavor infusion.
Cooking Techniques for Best Results
Sautéing the vegetables correctly at the outset is vital for developing a rich flavor base. When you sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, aim for a glossy, tender consistency rather than browning them. This technique draws out their natural sweetness and forms a savory foundation for your broth. If you notice any ingredients starting to stick, simply add a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze the pot.
Simmering is where the magic happens, as it allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully. After bringing the soup to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low and leave it uncovered. This helps concentrate the flavors while allowing the vegetables to soften without turning mushy. Keep an eye on the soup; it should be gently bubbling but not boiling aggressively. If needed, adjust the timing based on your stove's output.
Ingredients
Spring Minestrone Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
- 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Add More Veggies
Add the zucchini and asparagus to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then add the peas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finish and Serve
Stir in the fresh spinach and lemon juice just before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary and ladle the soup into bowls. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy the soup warm, paired with crusty bread or a light salad.
Pro Tips
- For added depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot after sautéing the vegetables.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Spring Minestrone Soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights. After preparing the soup, let it cool completely and transfer it into airtight containers. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even better on the second day.
If you're looking to store the soup for longer, consider freezing it. Portion out the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When stored properly, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to refrigerate overnight before reheating; gentle reheating over medium-low heat preserves the texture of the veggies and broth.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to customize your Spring Minestrone Soup based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. For a heartier version, you might add cooked pasta or beans; chickpeas or cannellini beans work beautifully here and contribute protein. If you enjoy spicy flavors, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
When serving, don't forget to present your soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a creamy, salty note that enhances the overall experience. For an extra layer of flavor, consider offering crusty bread on the side for dipping; it pairs well with the vibrant soup and creates a lovely, satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, using frozen vegetables is a great shortcut! Just add them directly into the pot along with the broth.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.
→ How can I make this soup heartier?
You can add cooked pasta or beans for a heartier version that will fill you up even more.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Spring Minestrone Soup
I love making Spring Minestrone Soup because it beautifully captures the essence of the season. Fresh vegetables like asparagus, peas, and spinach bring vibrant flavors to this dish, making it light yet satisfying. With every spoonful, the combination of herbs and the rich broth elevates the overall taste. It’s perfect for those spring days when you want something comforting but not too heavy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy some nutritious ingredients while warming you up from the inside out!
Created by: Wendy Ashbourne
Recipe Type: Simple Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Spring Minestrone Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
- 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Add the zucchini and asparagus to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then add the peas, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in the fresh spinach and lemon juice just before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary and ladle the soup into bowls. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot after sautéing the vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 6g