In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and carrot; sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened.
2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion, 2 medium carrots
Stir in garlic, oregano, and red-pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4 cloves garlic, 1 tsp oregano, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and bay leaves. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to deepen flavour.
15 oz crushed tomatoes, 4 cups vegetable broth, 2 bay leaves
Using a blender or immersion blender, purée 1 cup of the soup with ¾ cup of beans until creamy. Return the blended portion to the pot for a thicker texture.
30 oz cannellini beans
Stir in remaining beans and pasta. Simmer uncovered for 7–9 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is al dente (avoid overcooking so it doesn’t soak up all the liquid).
1 cup short pasta
Add spinach; cook 1–2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and discard bay leaves.
2 cups spinach
Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan.
1 tbsp lemon juice, ¼ cup Parmesan
Serve warm, topped with parsley if desired
1 tbsp parsley