Follow these steps to create a delicious and hearty minestrone soup that will warm your soul.

1. Step 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

2. Step 2

   Add the minced garlic and diced zucchini to the pot. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Step 3

   Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Step 4

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Step 5

   Add the pasta shells to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

6. Step 6

   Stir in the fresh chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.

7. Step 7

   Serve the minestrone hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to suit your taste. Minestrone is versatile and can be adapted to what you have on hand.