Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

An easy copycat Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe for that hearty, flavorful vegetarian (and vegan!) soup you know and love. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week. Its vibrant mix of vegetables and beans makes it both nutritious and satisfying, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with fresh vegetables and beans, each bowl is a warm hug in soup form.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or pasta to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy a delicious meal without any animal products; it’s suitable for everyone.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepot (6-8 quart)
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepot: Ideal for cooking soups, allowing enough space for all ingredients to simmer together.
• Sharp chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential to get ingredient quantities just right for perfect flavor balance.

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

Liquids

• 32 ounces vegetable broth
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup tomato paste

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)

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Liquids and Seasonings

Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Add Beans and Pasta

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

Step 5: Finish with Zucchini and Spinach

Finally:
1. Add in the sliced zucchini, spinach leaves, and parsley.
2. Stir well and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Taste your soup then adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving warm.

Enjoy this delightful Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe that’s sure to bring warmth to any occasion!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving your Olive Garden minestrone soup is all about enhancing the experience. This hearty dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great serving suggestions.

With Breadsticks

• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for dipping in the soup.
• Herb-Crusted Rolls: These rolls add a delightful crunch and herb flavor that pairs well with the soup.

Adding Fresh Toppings

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shredded, it adds a rich, savory touch.
• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil brightens up the dish with its aromatic flavor.

Accompanying Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the soup’s heartiness.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for a refreshing side.

Perfect for Meal Prep

• Pack in Containers: This soup stores well in meal prep containers, making it an ideal choice for lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

To make your Olive Garden minestrone soup truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind. They can elevate your cooking process and enhance the flavors of your dish.

• Bold Vegetable Choices: Use a variety of seasonal vegetables for richer flavor and texture.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving for added freshness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Pasta Cooking Time: Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain texture in the soup.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to ensure freshness when reheating.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid overcooking the vegetables.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden minestrone soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for dipping into the warm soup.
2. Italian Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with veggies offers a nice contrast to the hot soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil makes a delightful appetizer.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light and healthy option that complements the flavors of minestrone soup well.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains and veggies, they provide a hearty side that pairs nicely with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing your vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this; take the time to soften them for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ensure you follow the cooking times closely. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin the texture of your soup.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Seasoning can vary based on ingredients, so adjust salt and pepper according to your preferences.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the backbone of your soup. Choose a high-quality vegetable broth for the best flavor outcome.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley add brightness. Don’t skip this step or substitute with dried herbs for less flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe.

Can I make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe in advance?

Yes! Preparing this soup ahead of time enhances its flavors. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.

What vegetables can I add to my Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe?

Feel free to customize! Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or kale for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap out regular pasta for gluten-free varieties available in stores.

How do I make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe vegan-friendly?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly! It’s packed with beans and veggies without any animal products.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe is not only hearty and flavorful but also versatile. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or beans. It’s perfect as a main dish or appetizer, and pairing it with breadsticks will elevate your dining experience. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe!