Go Back
+ servings
Print Recipe
4.80 from 10 votes

Budget-Friendly Vegan Minestrone

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 3 meals
Author: Workweek Lunch

Ingredients

  • 1 TBSP olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped small
  • 2 carrot chopped
  • 2 clove garlic minced
  • 2 TBSP tomato paste optional
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 28 oz can of diced tomatoes don't drain
  • 6 cups water divided, sub veggie or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup lentils
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 6 oz mixed frozen veggies sub 2 cups chopped seasonal veg (see notes)
  • 6 oz macaroni elbows sub small pasta of your choice

Instructions

  • Heat up a large pot over a medium flame and add the olive oil. After a minute or two, add the onions and carrots with a pinch of salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes over medium-low heat, until the onions start to soften and become fragrant.
  • Add the garlic, tomato paste and more salt and pepper. Stir to coat the veggies in the paste and cook on medium for 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the can of diced tomatoes, 3 cups of water, lentils and oregano. Add another pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer. Let the lentils cook for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Add the remaining 3 cups of water, mixed frozen veggies and pasta. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the pasta cook through for about 10-12 minutes.
  • Taste the soup and adjust spices as needed! Then divide it between your containers and let it cool for 15-20 minutes before sealing and storing.