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Fresh Spring Minestrone with Sweet Peas

fresh spring minestrone with sweet peas - featured image

A light and comforting minestrone soup featuring sweet peas, fresh herbs, and a rich tomato broth, perfect for spring and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • ½ cup small pasta shapes (ditalini or small shells)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Stir frequently and cook until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent, about 7-10 minutes.
  2. Add the diced zucchini and cook, stirring, for another 3 minutes to soften but keep a slight bite.
  3. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and 4 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  4. Stir in ½ cup small pasta shapes. Cook on low heat until pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Add the drained cannellini beans and sweet peas. Continue cooking until peas are tender and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in chopped basil, parsley, and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and serve.

Notes

Do not overcook the zucchini and peas to keep their bright flavor and color. Use good-quality low-sodium vegetable broth for best flavor. Cook pasta separately if storing leftovers to prevent sogginess. Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their vibrant flavor. For a heartier soup, add kale or spinach with the beans. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: minestrone, spring soup, sweet peas, vegetable soup, easy recipe, healthy soup, vegetarian, gluten-free option