Healthy Crockpot Minestrone

Name: Healthy Crockpot Minestrone
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1 cup small pasta (e.g. ditalini or elbow macaroni) - add in the last 30 minutes of cooking; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I think about comfort food, minestrone soup tops the list. I love how simple ingredients combine to create a hearty and healthy dish right in my crockpot. This Healthy Crockpot Minestrone is packed with vibrant vegetables, kidney beans, and fragrant herbs, all simmered to perfection. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that not only warms you up but also satisfies your hunger while being nutritious. Plus, the slow cooking allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making it irresistible. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner!

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:49:12.001Z

I remember the first time I made this Healthy Crockpot Minestrone. I decided to throw together whatever veggies I had on hand, adding a few herbs and spices. To my surprise, it turned out to be one of the most flavorful soups I've ever crafted. Slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, and the beans add a satisfying protein punch.

One key tip I discovered is to avoid overcooking the pasta by adding it to the crockpot toward the end of the cooking time. This ensures that it remains al dente and doesn’t turn mushy. I promise this soup will quickly become a cozy staple in your home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with wholesome vegetables for a nutritious boost
Perfectly balanced flavors make every bowl enjoyable
Great for batch cooking and freezing for later use

      

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

Selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables for your minestrone is key to achieving vibrant flavors. Look for bright, crisp carrots and firm zucchini, as they enhance both the taste and texture of the soup. Avoid any overly soft or blemished produce, as these can negatively affect the final dish. You can also experiment with seasonal vegetables like squash or more greens, tailoring the recipe to what you have on hand.

For the best results, I recommend buying dried herbs in smaller quantities to ensure maximum freshness. Dried oregano and basil not only add depth to the soup but also complement the vegetables beautifully. If you have fresh herbs available, consider using them instead—just double the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor.

Slow Cooking Techniques

When using your crockpot, remember that the cooking time can vary based on the model and the ingredients you choose. Cooking on low for 8 hours allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring your vegetables remain tender yet intact. If you need a quicker option, cooking on high for 4 hours can still yield an excellent result but might require a bit more attention to avoid any overcooking.

To ensure an even cook, cut your vegetables into uniform sizes. This will help them cook at the same rate and prevents any mushy bits from developing. If you notice the soup is thicker than desired at the end of the cooking, simply stir in extra vegetable broth to reach your preferred consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal!

Vegetables and Beans

1 cup diced carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

Herbs and Seasonings

4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh spinach

Optional

1 cup small pasta (e.g. ditalini or elbow macaroni) - add in the last 30 minutes of cooking
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

These wholesome ingredients come together for a beautiful and nutritious soup that warms the soul.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Healthy Crockpot Minestrone.

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop all your vegetables and gather the beans and tomatoes. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Combine in Crockpot

Place all prepared vegetables, beans, and tomatoes into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the herbs.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.

Add Spinach and Pasta

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach and pasta to cook until al dente.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy your healthy meal!

Enjoy this comforting soup as a main dish or as a side with your favorite bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in any vegetables you prefer or have on hand. This soup is highly customizable and an excellent way to use up those almost wilted veggies in your fridge.

Storage and Freezing

This Healthy Crockpot Minestrone is perfect for batch cooking, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It's even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave and add a splash of vegetable broth if it becomes too thick.

If you want to freeze your minestrone, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to maintain even heat distribution.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your minestrone soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. Not only does this provide a delightful texture contrast, but it’s also perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. For a more filling meal, you could top your soup with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of chili flakes to add an extra flavor dimension.

If you're looking to make it a complete meal, try adding a protein source like shredded chicken or sautéed sausage. Just toss in the protein during the last 30 minutes of cooking to integrate the flavors, ensuring a satisfying and hearty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth and omit any cheese toppings.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! This minestrone freezes well. Just cool completely before freezing, and it can last for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for a spicy kick.