How to Cook Hearty Minestrone Soup with Meatballs

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup (150g) green beans, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt
• pepper
• 1 cup (120g) small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional)