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. Serve with breadsticks and salad to get the full restaurant experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty Flavor: Packed with fresh vegetables and beans, this soup offers a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious dish any day of the week.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or a main course; it fits perfectly in any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with fiber and vitamins, this soup is a healthy choice for everyone.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Olive Garden minestrone soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Saucepot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté vegetables evenly and simmer the soup without spilling over.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and efficient, ensuring even cooking.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring soups, it prevents scratching your cookware while allowing you to mix ingredients thoroughly.

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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 and Herbs

• 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
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Broth Base

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

Beans and 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)

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 salt and pepper.
3. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Broth Base

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

Step 4: Stir in Beans and Pasta

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

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Ingredients

Finally:
1. Add in the sliced zucchini, spinach leaves, and parsley.
2. Stir well and simmer for another 2 minutes.
3. Taste your soup; adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Pair it with complementary dishes and garnishes to create a complete meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette makes for perfect dipping and adds texture.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty soup, offering freshness to each bite.

Topped with Parmesan Cheese

• Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Add a Dash of Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a few drops of hot sauce can elevate the flavors beautifully.

With Garlic Knots

• Serve alongside garlic knots for a deliciously savory twist, perfect for sopping up the soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds color and enhances the aroma.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

To ensure your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables over canned when possible. They enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels based on personal preference.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness; it should be al dente.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like bell peppers or squash for variety.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pair your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup with these delightful side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice; serve warm and buttery, ideal for dipping into your soup.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic will refresh your palate between bites.

3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a crunchy contrast to the soup’s softness.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables can add depth and additional nutrients to your meal.

5. Cheesy Flatbread
   Soft flatbread sprinkled with cheese provides another layer of flavor while being easy to share.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with grains or beans make for a hearty side that pairs well with the soup’s texture.

7. Spinach Salad
   Lightly dressed spinach salad topped with nuts or seeds brings a refreshing crunch alongside the warm soup.

8. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, artichokes, and cheeses creates a flavorful starter that sets the mood for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final taste of the dish.

• Skipping the Vegetable Prep: Not chopping vegetables evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Take time to chop all ingredients uniformly for consistent texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Remember to taste as you go, adding salt and pepper appropriately for flavor enhancement.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it may become mushy. Add it during the last stages of cooking and monitor closely for perfect al dente texture.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can diminish the soup’s freshness. Always opt for fresh produce to achieve vibrant flavors and nutrition.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: Quick cooking may not allow flavors to meld properly. Ensure you simmer adequately for a rich and hearty taste in your minestrone soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions related to our Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe.

Can I make this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors develop. Just store it properly in the fridge or freeze it for later use.

Is this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Our recipe is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans while still being packed with flavor.

What vegetables can I substitute in this minestrone soup?

Feel free to add or replace with seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, kale, or sweet potatoes based on your preference.

How do I thicken my Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe?

To thicken your soup, you can blend a portion of it or add more pasta or beans during cooking until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use different types of beans?

Certainly! You can swap kidney beans and great northern beans with any other canned beans like black beans or chickpeas based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough to customize with seasonal veggies or additional spices. Give it a try today!