Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot. Add diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic and a pinch of salt. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent (about 8 minutes).
Add the beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken (or vegetable) stock. Mix in the oregano and chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then lower to a simmer. Simmer for thirty minutes.
Add the diced zucchini and spinach and let your minestrone simmer for another 30 minutes.
Ladle soup into bowls, sprinkle with parmesan, and dig in.