A light and vibrant twist on the classic minestrone, this Spring Minestrone Soup is packed with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and bright flavor boosters. Perfect for chilly spring evenings or a light lunch that warms and satisfies.

Spring Minestrone Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It highlights the best of spring produce—zucchini, asparagus, and peas—for a fresh, seasonal taste.
Cannellini beans and pasta turn it into a comforting, protein-packed one-bowl meal.
A final touch of pesto, Parmesan, and lemon juice adds layers of herbaceous, umami, and bright notes.
Easily adaptable to dietary preferences—and leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Yellow onion
Carrot and celery
Yukon gold potatoes
Garlic
Zucchini
Italian seasoning
Vegetable broth
Cannellini beans
Ditalini pasta
Spinach
Asparagus
Frozen peas
Parmesan cheese
Basil pesto
Lemon juice

Directions

Sauté the Base Vegetables
In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm olive oil and sauté onion, carrot, celery, and potatoes for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic in the last minute until fragrant.
Add Zucchini and Seasonings
Stir in zucchini, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to let flavors develop and zucchini to soften.
Simmer with Broth and Staples
Pour in vegetable broth, then add rinsed cannellini beans and ditalini pasta. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 8–10 minutes until pasta is al dente and potatoes tender.
Add the Spring Vegetables
Stir in spinach, asparagus, and frozen peas. Cook just 2 minutes to maintain vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.
Finish with Flavor Boosters
Stir in Parmesan, pesto, and lemon juice until well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan for the finishing touch.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 bowls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken or turkey sausage.
Gluten-free: Substitute with chickpea or lentil pasta.
Vegan: Omit Parmesan and pesto or swap for dairy‑free alternatives.
Extra greens: Add kale or Swiss chard alongside spinach.
Spicy kick: Finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: For up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth to restore texture.
Reheat: Warm single servings on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth as needed. Avoid microwaving pesto too much to preserve flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Prep everything and refrigerate. When ready, heat the soup before adding delicate greens, pesto, and lemon for maximum freshness.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo all work well. Just adjust cooking time for desired doneness.

3. What can I substitute for cannellini beans?

Great alternatives include navy beans, great northern beans, chickpeas, or even cooked lentils.

4. My asparagus is thick—do I still cook for only 2 minutes?

Trim thicker ends, slice on the bias into thinner pieces, then stir in during Step 4. They’ll cook through more evenly in that short time.

5. I don’t have pesto—what can I use?

Use extra basil, parsley, or a drizzle of good olive oil with garlic. Alternatively, stir in a little pesto-style herb blend or tapenade.

6. Is this soup spicy or bland?

It’s mild and comforting. Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste at the end.

7. How can I make the broth richer?

Use homemade broth or add a tablespoon of tomato paste or splash of white wine when simmering.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—just use a larger pot. You may need to increase simmer time slightly for larger volume.

9. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes—add fresh peas with the asparagus and spinach in Step 4, though older fresh peas may take a minute longer to soften.

10. My soup is thick—how can I thin it?

Simply stir in warm broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.

Conclusion

This Spring Minestrone Soup is the perfect celebration of seasonal produce—bright, nourishing, and comforting. With minimal prep and flexible ingredients, it’s both approachable and deeply satisfying. Try it tonight, and enjoy a bowlful of spring flavors that’ll lift your spirits!