In Sardinia, the Italian island known for some of the world’s longest-living people, a simple vegetable soup called Minestrone is more than just a meal — it’s a tradition tied to longevity. This hearty dish, rich in vegetables and legumes, is a staple in the first identified "Blue Zone," regions known for high life expectancy and low rates of chronic disease.
A chef recently shared a straightforward recipe for minestrone soup, suggesting it "might hold the secret to long life." Inspired by the Blue Zones’ lifestyle, the soup is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, as highlighted by the Mirror newspaper.
Sardinians follow a diet centered on whole foods like beans, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and in some areas, mastic oil. They also consume Pecorino cheese made from grass-fed sheep’s milk, which is high in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Meat is eaten sparingly, usually only on weekends or special occasions. It’s no surprise then that minestrone soup is considered a symbol of nutritious, anti-inflammatory eating.
Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones project, emphasizes that this soup supports the immune system and reduces inflammation — qualities that play a key role in the island’s remarkable longevity.