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 family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup without any hassle.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types for a unique twist each time.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank while providing a wholesome meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Ideal for cooking soups as it provides ample space for all ingredients to simmer together without overflowing.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

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 Vegetables

In a large stock pot over medium heat, add the olive oil, sliced carrots, celery, and diced onion. Place a lid on the pot and let the vegetables soften for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Zucchini

Next, add minced garlic and diced zucchini to the pot. Cook for an additional five minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings and Broth

Add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), green beans, and tomato paste. Mix well before pouring in half of the vegetable broth. Stir again, cover with lid, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about ten minutes.

Step 4: Cook Pasta and Beans

Return the soup to boiling. Add rinsed cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and tiny shell pasta into the pot. Cook for another ten to fifteen minutes until the pasta is tender; stir occasionally.

Step 5: Final Touches

Pour in the remaining vegetable broth. Fold in fresh spinach until wilted. Sprinkle minced parsley just before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy every comforting bite!

How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet meal, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the rich broth.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with soft garlic breadsticks for a classic combination that complements the soup’s flavors.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds crispness and balances the hearty soup, making it a complete meal.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can refresh your palate alongside the warm soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Vegan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, sprinkle vegan cheese for those who prefer plant-based alternatives.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Perfecting Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to make your soup truly shine.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture. Opt for seasonal vegetables whenever possible.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning based on your preference and ingredient freshness.
• Incorporate Variety in Beans: Mixing different beans like kidney and cannellini adds texture and nutritional value to your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can elevate your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Herb Flatbread: A soft flatbread brushed with garlic herb oil pairs wonderfully with the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the soup’s richness.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables can serve as a hearty addition.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers protein and makes for a healthy pairing.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese gives an indulgent twist that goes well with the soup’s broth.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a fresh bite that works nicely alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or frozen vegetables can diminish the soup’s flavor. Always opt for fresh produce when possible for the best taste.

• Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the tiny shell pasta too long can make it mushy. Add the pasta towards the end of cooking and check for doneness frequently.

• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting the soup before serving might result in blandness. Adjust salt, pepper, and seasonings to your liking after cooking.

• Using Low-Quality Broth: A subpar vegetable broth can impact the overall flavor of your soup. Choose a high-quality broth or make your own for richer taste.

• Neglecting Storage Tips: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Ensure you store the soup in airtight containers and follow proper refrigeration guidelines to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Olive Garden Minestrone Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Minestrone Soup:

What is Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a hearty vegetable and bean soup made with fresh ingredients and rich tomato broth, inspired by the popular restaurant dish.

Can I make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly. It includes plant-based ingredients like vegetables and beans without any animal products.

How long does Olive Garden Minestrone Soup last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I customize my Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can also use different types of beans or pasta.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as a comforting side dish, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Try adding different vegetables or spices to make it your own!