Minestrone with Quinoa Greens (Printable version)

A vibrant Italian soup featuring quinoa, winter greens, and hearty vegetables for a wholesome meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 - 1/2 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 - 1/2 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 Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and chopped fennel if using. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until vegetables soften.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add diced zucchini, rinsed quinoa, drained cannellini beans, diced tomatoes with juice, and low-sodium vegetable broth to the pot. Season with dried oregano, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
04 - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Stir in chopped winter greens and continue simmering for 7 to 10 minutes until quinoa is tender and greens are wilted.
06 - Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
07 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • High in protein and fiber for a satisfying meal
  • Gluten-free and dairy-free for most dietary needs
02 -
  • You can substitute winter greens with any sturdy leafy greens you have on hand.
  • For a vegan option, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
03 -
  • Rinse quinoa thoroughly before adding to prevent bitterness.
  • If you prefer extra heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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