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 evenings or gatherings, this recipe captures the essence of the beloved restaurant version. Serve it warm with your favorite breadsticks and salad to create a fulfilling meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Hearty: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, cooking this minestrone soup is a breeze, perfect for kitchen novices.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies or pasta based on what’s available to you; it’s adaptable for any season!
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy a comforting dish that aligns with plant-based diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time; it stores well for leftovers or future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepot: Ideal for making soups, allowing ample space for ingredients to simmer together evenly.
• Cutting board: A stable surface ensures safe chopping of vegetables, which is key to preparing your ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife: A sharp blade makes cutting through vegetables faster and safer, enhancing your overall prep time.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring every ingredient mixes well.

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!

For the Base

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

For the Soup

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

For the Protein and Veggies

• 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: Chop Your Ingredients

Start by chopping all necessary ingredients. Set a large 6-8 quart saucepot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once hot, add the olive oil to the pot.
* Add in the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
* Generously salt and pepper the mixture.
* Sauté for 4–6 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Build Your Broth

Add these ingredients into the pot:
* Vegetable broth
* Diced tomatoes
* Tomato paste
* Italian seasoning
* Crushed red pepper (if using)

Bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Add Beans and Pasta

Once boiling:
* Stir in the kidney beans, great northern beans, frozen green beans, and pasta.
* Stir well and let it simmer partially covered for 8–10 minutes.
* Be sure to stir every 2 minutes so that pasta doesn’t stick.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Veggies

Finally:
* Add in your sliced zucchini, spinach leaves, and parsley.
* Stir everything together well and let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
* Taste your soup; add salt and pepper as needed before serving warm.

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serving your Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe can enhance the dining experience. This hearty vegetarian soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

With Breadsticks

• Freshly baked breadsticks complement the soup’s flavors while providing a satisfying crunch. You can serve them warm with olive oil or butter for dipping.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Placing the soup over a bed of fresh spinach adds vibrant color and extra nutrients. The warmth of the soup will slightly wilt the spinach, enhancing its flavor.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Though not vegan, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl adds a rich, savory depth to the minestrone. For a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A crisp side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty soup. The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the warm flavors of the minestrone.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes for an inviting table setting. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color and flavor.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

To make your Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe even better, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh produce brings vibrant flavors and textures that canned vegetables may lack. Opt for seasonal veggies whenever possible.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Seasoning is key; adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference, and don’t forget to add fresh herbs for an aromatic touch.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, cook it al dente before adding it to the soup. This ensures it maintains some bite even after simmering.

• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a richer taste.

• Freeze Leftovers: If you have leftovers, freeze them in single-serving containers. This way, you can enjoy this delicious soup anytime without losing quality.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that work well together:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into minestrone and adds an extra layer of flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offers a refreshing contrast to warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and pair nicely with the earthy flavors of minestrone.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Vegetarian stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables complement the soup’s heartiness well.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon dressing adds protein while keeping things fresh.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory soup—great for soaking up every last drop!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, avoid these common pitfalls for a perfect bowl every time.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step – Neglecting to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté your onions, carrots, and celery to build flavor.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning – A lack of seasoning will make your soup taste flat. Be generous with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Overcooking the Pasta – If you overcook the pasta, it can become mushy. Follow the cooking time closely; aim for al dente.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients – Using wilted or stale vegetables will affect the soup’s taste. Always choose fresh produce for the best flavor.
• Not Tasting Before Serving – Failing to taste before serving can lead to unseasoned or overly salted soup. Always adjust seasonings at the end based on your preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe

• Oven – Place in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe.

What is the best way to customize Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe?

You can add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, peas, or corn make great additions.

Can I make this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available in stores.

How long does Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe last in the fridge?

The soup will last up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it freezes well and can be made ahead of time.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Yes! Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with seasonal veggies or different beans. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl that brings a taste of Italy right into your home!