Warm, hearty, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Minestrone with Tofu is a comforting plant-based twist on the classic Italian soup. Featuring golden cubes of sautéed tofu, tender vegetables, protein-rich kidney beans, and al dente pasta, all simmered in a fragrant vegetable broth flavored with oregano and basil, this recipe is both nourishing and satisfying. Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a dose of greens, while a squeeze of lemon juice provides a bright, tangy finish. Ready in just one hour, this vegan-friendly minestrone is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering six generous servings of protein-packed goodness. Ideal for lovers of hearty vegan soups, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-rich meal, rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
Press the tofu for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into small 1 cm cubes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and sauté until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the diced zucchini, canned tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, and dried oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Lower the heat to a simmer and add the drained kidney beans. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15 minutes.
Add the pasta to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Stir in the fresh spinach and sautéed tofu, cooking just until warmed through and the spinach has wilted, about 2 minutes.
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve the minestrone hot, with a drizzle of lemon juice if desired, for added brightness.
Calories |
2185 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 85.1 g | 109% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.8 g | 74% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 5993 mg | 261% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 253.0 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 65.8 g | 235% | |
| Total Sugars | 55.6 g | ||
| Protein | 120.4 g | 241% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 3116 mg | 240% | |
| Iron | 31.9 mg | 177% | |
| Potassium | 6981 mg | 149% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.