Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Enjoy a piping hot bowl of Olive Garden Minestrone soup in the comforts of your home. This copycat recipe makes enough for 8-10 hearty servings and is chock-full of vegetables and beans in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup provides a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without hassle.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the pasta for gluten-free options based on dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for later! The flavors meld beautifully when reheated.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, gather the essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Essential for evenly cooking large quantities of soup without spilling.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables while keeping your kitchen tidy.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient chopping, making prep time shorter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent flavors in every batch.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 carrots (sliced)
• 4 ribs celery (sliced)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 zucchini (diced)

Seasonings and Broth

• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 16 ounces Canned Diced tomatoes
• 4 ounces Tomato Paste

Beans and Pasta

• 1 cup Green Beans (cut 1-inch pieces)
• 64 ounces Vegetable broth (divided)
• 16 ounces cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
• 16 ounces Red Kidney Beans (rinsed and drained)
• ½ cup Tiny Shell Pasta

Fresh Greens

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon Parsley (minced)

How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large stock pot, on medium heat add the olive oil, carrots, celery, and onions. Place a lid on the stock pot and let the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Zucchini

Then add the minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for an additional 5 minutes while mixing often until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings and Broth

Next, add the seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning), canned diced tomatoes with juice, green beans, and tomato paste. Mix well, then pour in half of the vegetable broth. Stir again, cover with a lid, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Beans and Pasta

Bring the soup back up to a boil. Add the rinsed and drained beans along with tiny shell pasta. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is fully cooked. Mix occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

Pour in the remaining vegetable broth. Stir in fresh spinach, letting it wilt before serving. Sprinkle fresh minced parsley just before serving and mix into soup. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving Olive Garden Minestrone soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making it an ideal choice for a cozy meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve slices of toasted garlic bread for a flavorful addition that complements the soup.
• Baguette – A fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich broth and soaking up the delicious flavors.

As a Main Dish

• With Salad – Pair the soup with a fresh garden salad topped with your favorite dressing for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Over Rice – Serving the minestrone over a bed of rice adds extra texture and makes it even more filling.

For Garnishing

• Fresh Herbs – Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added freshness and color.
• Parmesan Cheese – Although not strictly vegan, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can enhance the flavor profile for those who enjoy dairy.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Perfecting this Olive Garden Minestrone soup is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure a delicious result every time.

• Use Fresh Vegetables – Freshly chopped vegetables provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen or canned options.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste the broth before serving and adjust seasonings according to your preference for salt and spices.
• Cook Pasta Separately – For optimal texture, consider cooking the tiny shell pasta separately and adding it to each bowl just before serving.
• Add Beans Last – To prevent them from becoming mushy, add cans of beans towards the end of cooking after boiling the soup.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Complementing Olive Garden Minestrone soup with side dishes can create a wholesome meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing side.
2. Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a hearty balance alongside the soup.
3. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers an Italian touch that pairs well.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add protein and make for a colorful plate.
5. Vegetable Platter – A selection of raw veggies served with hummus brings crunchiness and freshness to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad – A cold salad made from quinoa mixed with vegetables is nutritious and complements the warm soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture.

• Not chopping vegetables uniformly – When vegetables are cut in different sizes, they cook unevenly. Make sure to slice all vegetables to a similar size for consistent cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta – Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Keep an eye on the pasta and taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up.
• Skipping broth options – Using only water instead of broth will diminish flavor. Always use vegetable broth for depth or replace it with homemade broth for best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Tasting throughout cooking is essential. Adjust seasonings as needed; some tomatoes may be saltier than others, so don’t hesitate to modify accordingly.
• Not allowing time for flavors to meld – A brief simmer helps flavors develop. Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time, enhancing the overall taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garden Minestrone Soup in airtight containers.
• It can last in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Olive Garden Minestrone Soup special?

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup features a rich tomato base filled with fresh vegetables and beans, offering a hearty yet light meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it utilizes vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients without any animal products.

How do I customize my Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also substitute different types of beans or pasta shapes based on personal preference.

Is Olive Garden Minestrone Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutritious vegetables and beans, making it a wholesome option that’s low in calories while being high in fiber.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

The total time required is about 45 minutes including prep and cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal option.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only comforting but also full of vibrant flavors and textures. It’s versatile enough to adapt with seasonal vegetables or your favorite additions. Give this recipe a try for a deliciously satisfying homemade version of the classic dish!