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. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this dish brings the comforting essence of Italian cuisine right to your home. Enjoy it with warm breadsticks and a fresh salad to get the full restaurant experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with beans and vegetables, making it a nutritious meal that satisfies.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies or beans based on what you have on hand for an adaptable dish.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for quick meals throughout the week.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, it’s suitable for a variety of diets.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepot (6-8 quart)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepot: Essential for cooking soups; allows sufficient space for ingredients to simmer properly.
• Sharp knife: Aids in quick chopping of vegetables, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your soup.

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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!

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion (peeled and chopped)
– ¾ cup sliced carrots
– ½ cup sliced celery
– 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 32 ounces vegetable broth
– 14 ounces diced tomatoes
– ¼ cup tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– ¼ – ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
– 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)
– 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

• Chop all vegetables including onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and zucchini.
• Measure out all remaining ingredients so they are ready when needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Set your large saucepot over medium heat.
• Add the olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
• Season generously with salt and pepper. Sauté for 4–6 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

• Pour in the vegetable broth along with diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
• Stir in Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper if using.
• Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Pasta

• Once boiling, add kidney beans, great northern beans, frozen green beans, and pasta.
• Stir well to combine. Simmer partially covered for 8–10 minutes; stir every 2 minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Greens

• After simmering, stir in sliced zucchini, spinach leaves, and parsley.
• Continue simmering for an additional 2 minutes. Taste your soup; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm.

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and textures.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. A rustic loaf complements the soup’s rich taste.

Fresh Salad

• Pair with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and crunch to your meal.

Garlic Breadsticks

• Offer garlic breadsticks for an authentic touch reminiscent of dining out. They are perfect for soaking up the soup.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This adds a savory finish and enhances the flavor profile.

Avocado Slices

• Add sliced avocado as a creamy garnish. It brings richness and balances the soup’s acidity.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

To elevate your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, consider these helpful tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your palate.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushiness, cook pasta until al dente before adding it to the soup.
• Add Greens Last: Incorporate spinach or other greens towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.
• Let it Sit: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, freeze them in portioned containers for a quick meal later on.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Complement your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup with these delicious side dishes that add variety and satisfaction to your meal.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a tasty, healthy addition that pairs well with the soup.
3. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese and garlic offer a comforting side that everyone loves.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches make for a nostalgic pairing that kids will enjoy.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and beans bring an extra dose of heartiness to your table.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs enhances nutrition while balancing flavors.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory notes of minestrone perfectly.
8. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add an Asian twist that’s both light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Not chopping veggies ahead of time can lead to uneven cooking. Always prepare ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Add ingredients in stages to maintain an optimal cooking temperature.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make the soup bland. Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your preference.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Cooking pasta too long in the soup can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly after removing from heat.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale or old vegetables can detract from flavor and texture. Opt for fresh produce and check expiration dates on canned items.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat until warmed, stirring occasionally, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to this recipe that might help you:

How long does this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe take?

This recipe takes approximately 40 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop beautifully when made a day in advance. Just store it properly and reheat before serving.

Is this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegan diets.

What vegetables can I add or substitute?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or kale. You can also substitute zucchini with yellow squash if desired.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! You can mix in other beans such as black beans or pinto beans according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for numerous customization options based on your preferred vegetables and beans. It’s perfect as a hearty meal or appetizer and pairs wonderfully with breadsticks or a fresh salad. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!