Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Enjoy a piping hot bowl of Olive Garden Minestrone Soup in the comforts of your home. This delightful copycat recipe makes enough for 8-10 hearty servings and is chock-full of vegetables and beans in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in, this soup brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with fresh vegetables and beans, this soup is bursting with taste and nutrition.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time. It freezes well for quick meals later on.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is completely plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this comforting soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Perfect for cooking large quantities while allowing room for stirring and boiling without spills.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving the soup neatly into bowls without mess.

Ingredients

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.

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)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning

For the Tomatoes & Broth

• 16 ounces Canned Diced tomatoes
• 4 ounces Tomato Paste
• 1 cup Green Beans (cut 1-inch pieces)
• 64 ounces Vegetable broth (divided)

For the Beans & Pasta

• 16 ounces cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
• 16 ounces Red Kidney Beans (rinsed and drained)
• ½ cup Tiny Shell Pasta

For Finishing Touches

• 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 & Zucchini

Then add the minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, mixing often to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings & Broth

Next, add the seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning), canned diced tomatoes with juice, green beans, and tomato paste. Mix well then add in 64 ounces of vegetable broth. Stir again, place the lid on the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Beans & Pasta

Bring the soup back up to a boil. Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and tiny shell pasta to the pot. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the pasta is fully cooked, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Final Touches

Pour in an additional 32 ounces of broth. Stir in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt before serving. Sprinkle fresh minced parsley just before serving and stir into soup. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving Olive Garden Minestrone soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This hearty soup is not only filling but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy a slice of fresh, crusty bread alongside your soup. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a rustic touch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly minced parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

With Grated Cheese

• For those who enjoy cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top just before serving. It adds richness and depth to the soup.

As a Main Course

• Serve this soup as a standalone meal by pairing it with a fresh salad. A light garden salad complements the flavors beautifully.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the minestrone in an edible bread bowl. This makes for an impressive presentation that guests will love.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

To master the Olive Garden Minestrone soup, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Vegetables – Always opt for fresh veggies over frozen to enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – To prevent mushiness, cook the tiny shell pasta until it’s al dente before adding it to the soup.
• Add More Broth – If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more vegetable broth during cooking.
• Let It Sit – Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Minestrone soup can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy and flavorful garlic bread provides a perfect contrast to the warm soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that complements the soup.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that pairs well with the rich minestrone flavors.
4. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds an Italian flair to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses provides variety and excitement on your table.
6. Roasted Veggies – Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition while enhancing the overall meal experience.
7. Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad featuring vinaigrette dressing can provide a cool contrast to hot soup.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables make for a hearty addition alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Always start by softening your carrots, celery, and onions to build a rich base.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you let the pasta cook too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and only add it to the soup for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley brighten up the soup. Add them just before serving for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component of this soup. Invest in a good-quality vegetable broth for rich flavors.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Cooking can change flavors, so season accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Olive Garden Minestrone Soup that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.

How do I make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure all ingredients used are plant-based.

Can I customize Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

How long does Olive Garden Minestrone Soup last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

What beans can I use in Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Cannellini beans and red kidney beans work well, but you can also use other varieties like black beans or chickpeas if desired.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or beans! Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!