Chic minestrone soup : a post holiday reset

Chic Minestrone Soup: A Post-Holiday Reset**

There’s something undeniably elegant about a pot of minestrone soup simmering on the stove. After the indulgence of Christmas, when I feel like my veggie intake has taken a backseat to treats, this soup is my go-to. It’s comforting, nourishing, and just what I need to reset. It’s also the perfect way to start a productive, feel-good Monday.

Here’s how I make it:

*Ingredients**

- **Half a head of cauliflower** (adds a lovely heartiness)

- **5 oz baby spinach** (or kale or cabbage for a twist)

- **1 bay leaf** (for that earthy, aromatic base)

- **2 small zucchini** (delicate and light)

- **1 can stewed tomatoes** (rich and flavorful)

- **1 can cannellini beans, drained** (for protein and creaminess)

- **2 carrots, diced** (for natural sweetness)

- **2 celery stalks, diced** (classic and crisp)

- **1 yellow onion, diced** (the essential soup foundation)

- **1 leek, sliced** (adds a subtle, sophisticated flavor)

- **1 litre of stock of your choice** (I love vegetable or chicken stock for depth)

**Optional Add-Ins for Chic Flavor**

- A sprinkle of **chilli flakes** for a bit of heat

- A generous grind of **black pepper**

- **Freshly grated Parmesan cheese** for that perfect salty finish

- A drizzle of **pesto** to take the flavor up a notch

And because minestrone is so forgiving, I love throwing in any extra veggies I have on hand—cabbage, kale, or whatever’s in my fridge. It’s a beautiful way to minimize waste while maximizing flavor.

*Why It’s Chic**

This soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. The vibrant colors of the vegetables, the fragrant steam rising from the pot, and the act of preparing something so wholesome make it feel special. Ladle it into your favorite bowl, top it with Parmesan and pesto, and pair it with a piece of crusty bread for an effortlessly elegant meal.

Minestrone soup is the ultimate balance of healthy and indulgent—a bowl of nourishment that feels as luxurious as it does practical. So, whether it’s post-holiday recovery or a Monday reset, this chic minestrone will always have a place in my kitchen. Bon appétit!