Stanley Tucci Says This Classic Soup Recipe Is ‘The Secret to a Healthy Life’

I love two things most during the winter months: a one-pot meal and a cozy, warm soup. So when I saw Stanley Tucci’s recent Instagram post about his batch-cooked minestrone soup, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. According to the actor and foodie, this simple yet nutritious soup is “the secret to a healthy life,” and it’s easy to see where he’s coming from. Packed with vegetables like carrots, onions, leeks and kale, it’s the perfect dish to nourish both your body and soul. 

In his Instagram post, Tucci declared winter “the season of batch cooking,” a sentiment I completely agree with. There is something about preparing a big pot of soup that not only warms you up but also makes meal planning for the week a breeze. Plus, with all those veggies, it’s a feel-good dish that offers long-lasting comfort.  

Although Tucci didn’t provide a specific recipe, there are plenty of ways to re-create his delicious soup at home. Whether you’re looking for a classic version, a vegan alternative or one with lean protein, we’ve got you covered with some great options. 

Tucci does mention that his version includes carrots, onions, leeks and kale, so our delicious Kale, White Bean & Pasta Soup would work as a delicious dupe that you can make in less than an hour. For a traditional take on minestrone, our classic Minestrone Soup will do the trick. It’s full of veggies and offers a savory broth, beans and pasta for a comforting depth of flavor. A true crowd-pleaser, this minestrone recipe is simple yet satisfying. And since it serves six, it would be a super-cozy option to prep for the workweek ahead.

For a plant-based option, our Vegan Minestrone Soup is a winner. It’s loaded with beans, vegetables and pasta—everything you need for a filling, nutrient-rich meal. Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. 

If you’re looking for a little more protein, this Slow-Cooker Turkey & Kale Minestrone Soup is perfect. This recipe is packed with ground turkey and you can choose between hot or mild sausage to adjust the heat level and, for an extra kick, add some red pepper. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights—we let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting, so you can have a warm flavorful meal waiting for you at the end of the day. 

No matter how you choose to make your minestrone, the essence of the dish remains the same: it’s all about fresh, healthy ingredients that come together in one beautiful pot. Let them all simmer together for a while, and you’ll have something delicious and nourishing on your hands. Tucci sums it up perfectly when he says that “in this beautiful pot is the secret to a healthy life.”

So, the next time you’re craving something warm and wholesome, turn to a big bowl of minestrone. It’s more than just soup—it’s a hug in a bowl, a winter essential that’s sure to keep you feeling good all season long.