Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

An easy copycat Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe brings the comforting flavors of a classic Italian dish right to your kitchen. This hearty, flavorful vegetarian (and vegan!) soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. You can enjoy it as a stand-alone meal or serve it alongside fresh breadsticks and a side salad for the complete restaurant experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with vegetables and legumes, this soup is not only tasty but also full of vitamins and minerals.
• Customizable – Feel free to switch up the vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand; this recipe is highly adaptable!
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal later.
• Family-Friendly – The mild flavors appeal to everyone, making it a great option for picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepot – A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding as you sauté vegetables.
• Chef’s knife – A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and efficient, improving your prep time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, helping to mix ingredients evenly.

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Ingredients

An easy copycat Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe for that hearty, flavorful vegetarian (and vegan!) soup you know and love. Serve with breadsticks and salad to get the full restaurant experience!

Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (peeled and chopped)
• ¾ cup sliced carrots
• ½ cup sliced celery
• 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)

Broth Base

• 32 ounces vegetable broth
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

Beans & Pasta

• 15 ounces canned kidney beans (drained)
• 15 ounces canned great northern beans (drained)
• ¾ cup frozen cut green beans
• ½ cup small dried pasta (shells, ditalini, macaroni)

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 small zucchini (halved and sliced)
• 2 large handfuls fresh baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Chop and prepare all necessary ingredients.
2. Set a large 6-8 quart saucepot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add the olive oil to the pot.
2. Once hot, add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Generously salt and pepper.
3. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Broth Base

1. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper.
2. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans & Pasta

1. Once boiling, stir in the kidney beans, great northern beans, green beans, and pasta.
2. Stir well and simmer for 8-10 minutes while partially covered.
3. Stir every 2 minutes to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

1. Finally, add in the sliced zucchini, spinach leaves, and parsley.
2. Stir gently and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Taste your soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Olive Garden minestrone soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can enhance its flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some great ways to present this hearty soup.

With Fresh Breadsticks

• Serve warm, buttery breadsticks on the side for a classic touch. They are perfect for dipping into the rich soup.

Accompanied by a Green Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup’s flavors. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra freshness.

Paired with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• For a comforting meal, serve minestrone soup with grilled cheese sandwiches. The melty cheese adds a delicious contrast to the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl of soup with fresh chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and enhances the flavor profile.

Served in a Rustic Bowl

• Presentation matters! Use rustic bowls to serve the minestrone soup. This makes it feel more homey and inviting.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

To make your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use homemade vegetable broth: For deeper flavors, simmer your own vegetable broth instead of store-bought options.
• Chop vegetables uniformly: Ensures even cooking and an appealing presentation. Aim for similar sizes for all chopped ingredients.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking. This allows you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors according to your preference.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. It should be al dente when served.
• Add fresh greens last: Stir in spinach or other greens at the very end to keep them vibrant and nutrient-rich.
• Customize with seasonal vegetables: Incorporate any fresh, seasonal veggies you have on hand for added nutrition and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can elevate your meal experience significantly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic and olive oil provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing complement to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor, making them a nutritious choice alongside the soup.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with vegetables and lemon dressing brings brightness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices provide additional fiber and nutrients while being satisfying.
6. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta make an excellent pairing, reinforcing the Italian theme of your meal.
7. Crispy Polenta Fries: These golden bites add crunch; serve them alongside for guests who enjoy finger foods.
8. Antipasto Platter: A colorful platter of olives, cheeses, artichokes, and marinated vegetables offers variety and is visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Preparing all ingredients beforehand helps streamline the cooking process and ensures nothing is overlooked.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste your soup as it cooks. Adding salt and pepper at different stages enhances flavors significantly.
• Overcooking pasta: If you add the pasta too early, it may become mushy. Add it during the last 8-10 minutes of cooking to retain its texture.
• Ignoring freshness: Using fresh vegetables makes a big difference in flavor. Don’t substitute them with old or canned veggies unless necessary.
• Neglecting storage tips: Improper storage can affect taste and texture. Follow proper guidelines for refrigeration and reheating.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Transfer soup into a pot, heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe that many home cooks have.

How long does Olive Garden Minestrone Soup last?

The Olive Garden Minestrone Soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Can I customize this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute beans according to your preference.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe is entirely vegan-friendly, using only plant-based ingredients.

What can I serve with Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Pair it with breadsticks or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe offers a hearty and nutritious meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Its versatility allows for various vegetable additions and customization based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious bowl of goodness that brings restaurant flavors right into your home!