This comforting Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup offers a nourishing option for any occasion. In just under an hour, you can create a dish that warms the soul, brimming with vibrant flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal chopping, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with vegetables, beans, and Italian herbs, every bowl is full of robust flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a starter or a main course; it pairs well with bread or salad.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with nutrients from fresh produce and legumes, it’s a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Freezable Delight: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick weeknight meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Minestrone Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as it provides ample space for simmering ingredients without splatters.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking and better texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time.

this recipe

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots (diced into small cubes)
• 2 small zucchinis (diced into small cubes)
• 1/2 large onion (diced into small cubes)
• 6 celery stalks (diced into small cubes)

Canned Goods

• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 15 oz canned Great Northern beans (drained)
• 15 oz canned Kidney beans (drained)

Broth & Liquid

• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 2 cups water

Seasonings & Pasta

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp dry basil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni recommended)

How to Make Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Preheat the pot over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add diced zucchini, carrots, celery, and onions.
3. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and develop a fragrant aroma.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

1. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices.
2. Stir in Italian seasoning and dry basil, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Beans

1. Pour in the vegetable broth.
2. Add the kidney and Great Northern beans.
3. Stir in pasta and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook fully. If the soup thickens too much, add up to 2 more cups of water to adjust consistency.

Step 4: Infuse Garlic Flavor

1. Press or stir in the minced garlic into the pot.
2. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to let the garlic infuse its flavor fully.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

1. Once everything is tender and well combined, ladle the minestrone soup into bowls.
2. Serve warm for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

Minestrone Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread pairs wonderfully, adding a burst of flavor.
• Breadsticks: Classic breadsticks provide a comforting accompaniment.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth to each bowl.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella on top creates a deliciously gooey texture.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves enhance the aromatic qualities and add a touch of color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley offers freshness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

To achieve the best flavors in your Minestrone Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish to restaurant-quality perfection.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Always opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning levels based on your preferences; a well-seasoned soup makes all the difference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Add Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Minestrone Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers provide additional protein and flavor alongside the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition to your meal.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs nicely with soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad adds grains and balances out the meal wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you make the best Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables before adding them to the soup enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; give them time to soften.

• Overcooking the pasta: If you overcook the pasta, it can turn mushy. Add pasta in the last 10 minutes of cooking for optimal texture.

• Not seasoning enough: Lack of seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.

• Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor. Opt for a good vegetable broth for a richer taste.

• Neglecting to add fresh herbs: Fresh herbs elevate your Minestrone Soup’s flavor profile. Consider adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep the soup fresh.
• Minestrone Soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It’s best to freeze within 2-3 days of making for optimal freshness; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe.

Can I customize my Minestrone Soup?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers based on your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add meat to this Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe?

Absolutely! You can include cooked chicken or turkey for added protein if desired.

What type of beans work best in Minestrone Soup?

Great Northern beans and kidney beans are excellent choices, but feel free to mix and match!

How long does it take to make this recipe?

This comforting soup takes about 45 minutes from prep to serving!

Final Thoughts

This Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe is not only hearty and healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables and beans. Give it a try today—your family will love this comforting meal!

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Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6

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Description

Warm up your evenings with this comforting Minestrone Soup, inspired by the beloved Olive Garden recipe. This hearty soup is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, wholesome beans, and tender pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a make-ahead meal, it’s packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients that will nourish your body and soul. In less than an hour, you can have a bowl of this deliciousness ready to serve, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 small zucchinis (diced)
• 1/2 large onion (diced)
• 6 celery stalks (diced)
• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 15 oz canned Great Northern beans (drained)
• 15 oz canned kidney beans (drained)
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp dry basil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced zucchini, carrots, celery, and onions; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, Italian seasoning, and dry basil.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and add drained beans. Mix in pasta and bring to a simmer; cook for about 10 minutes.
4. Incorporate minced garlic and simmer for another 10 minutes to enhance flavor.
5. Ladle soup into bowls and serve warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize your soup by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For added protein, cooked chicken or turkey can be included. Cooking pasta separately is recommended to maintain its texture.