One Pot Vegan Minestrone Soup

0 BEANS: Drain soaked beans and grains, transfer them to a pot with 3 times more water and cook over medium heat for 30 minutes. Alternatively, use canned beans (see notes below).
1 SOFFRITO: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or skillet. Add onions, carrots and celery and sautée for about 5 minutes over medium-high heat. Add green beans,  zucchini and garlic. Cook for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
2 SOUP: Add basil, thyme, oregano, chili flakes, black pepper, sea salt and bay leaves. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable stock, beans and grains together with the cooking liquid. Bring to a boil and stir in spinach. Simmer for 10 minutes with a lid on. 
3 GARNISH: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with ciabatta bread and vegan pesto (optional). Enjoy!