Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

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. Perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this soup brings warmth and flavor to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is a satisfying main course.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making this soup is a breeze.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the vegetables or add different beans based on your preferences.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with fiber and vitamins, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and store leftovers for an easy meal later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. This will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Ideal for simmering soups; allows for even cooking of all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife speeds up chopping and ensures uniform vegetable sizes for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 16 ounces Canned Diced tomatoes
– 4 ounces Tomato Paste
– 1 cup Green Beans (cut into 1-inch pieces)
– 64 ounces Vegetable broth (divided)
– 16 ounces cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
– 16 ounces Red Kidney Beans (rinsed and drained)
– ½ cup Tiny Shell Pasta
– 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 over medium heat, add the olive oil, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and diced onion. Cover with a lid to allow the vegetables to soften.

Step 2: Add Additional Vegetables

Once softened, add the minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for an additional five minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the seasonings—salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning—and then incorporate the canned diced tomatoes along with their juice, green beans, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly before adding in half of the vegetable broth. Cover again, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer for ten minutes.

Step 4: Cook Pasta and Beans

Return the soup to a boil. Stir in the rinsed cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and tiny shell pasta. Cook for another ten to fifteen minutes until the pasta is fully cooked, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Final Touches

Pour in an additional thirty-two ounces of vegetable broth. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Just before serving, sprinkle with minced parsley for added flavor. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can elevate the dining experience while showcasing its vibrant flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this hearty soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or artisan bread for dipping into the rich broth.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil to enhance flavor and add a pop of color.

Accompany with Salad

• A side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup perfectly.

Include Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on the side for those who enjoy a cheesy addition to their soup.

Serve in Individual Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, making for an edible serving dish.

Garnish with Lemon Wedge

• A wedge of lemon adds brightness when squeezed over the soup just before eating.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

To ensure your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is as delicious as possible, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture, making the soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels as needed based on preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For perfect pasta texture, cook it separately and add it just before serving to prevent overcooking.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops richer flavors; just be sure to stir occasionally.
• Add More Broth: If it thickens too much after storage, simply add more vegetable broth when reheating.
• Don’t Skip the Spinach: Adding fresh spinach at the end keeps it bright and adds nutrients without losing texture.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Complement your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic side that pairs wonderfully, providing a satisfying crunch and garlic flavor.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, this comfort food is perfect for dipping into soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition alongside your soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty complement to your meal.

6. Crispy Flatbread
   Lightly seasoned flatbread provides an excellent vessel for enjoying every drop of soup.

7. Potato Wedges
   Seasoned potato wedges serve as a filling side that complements the flavors of minestrone well.

8. Zucchini Fritters
   These crispy fritters add a tasty crunch and pair nicely with the soft textures found in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the soup’s flavors. Always use fresh produce for the best taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each ingredient has a specific cooking time. Follow the prescribed times to ensure everything is cooked properly.
• Not seasoning adequately: Proper seasoning is key. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
• Overcooking the pasta: Tiny shell pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Add it at the right stage, and keep an eye on it.
• Skipping the broth: The broth is essential for flavor. Don’t skimp on quality; use good vegetable broth for a rich taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup recipe special?

This copycat recipe captures the rich flavors of Olive Garden’s original while allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and beans.

Can I make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly and uses only plant-based ingredients.

How long does it take to make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

The total time for preparation and cooking is about 45 minutes, making it a quick option for dinner.

Can I add meat to this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken or turkey if you’re looking for a heartier version of this soup.

How do I customize my Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preference. You can also experiment with different types of beans or pasta shapes.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or paired with a side salad, this recipe offers endless customization options. Try adding your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!