A bowl of Olive Garden Vegetable Soup brings warmth and joy to any meal. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a quick lunch. Packed with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as a starter or a main course, making it a delightful addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this soup in no time.
• Nutritious and Healthy – Filled with fresh vegetables, this soup offers a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Dish – Serve it on its own or pair it with breadsticks for a more filling meal.
• Flavorful Experience – The blend of Italian seasonings elevates the taste, making every spoonful delightful.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This soup stores well, making it ideal for batch cooking and easy weeknight dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather your tools and equipment before you start. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering soups evenly without spills.
• Cutting board – Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife – Ensures quick and efficient cutting of ingredients, enhancing prep time.

this recipe

Ingredients

A delicious and hearty vegetable soup inspired by Olive Garden, packed with fresh vegetables and rich flavors.

Ingredients:
– 1 tbsp Olive oil
– 1 medium Onion, chopped
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 2 medium Carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 sticks Celery, chopped
– 1 14.5 oz Can diced tomatoes
– 1 6 oz Can tomato paste
– 4 cups Vegetable broth
– 1 medium Zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup Green beans, chopped
– 1 cup Canned kidney beans or beans of your choice, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
– 1/4 tsp Black pepper or to taste
– Optional: Red pepper flakes to taste
– Optional for garnish: Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley

How to Make Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5-10 minutes so that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate Remaining Vegetables

Add the chopped zucchini, green beans, and kidney beans (or your choice of beans) into the pot. Stir well to combine everything. Bring the soup back to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Once cooked, stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes according to your taste preference. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Ladle the rich soup into bowls. If desired, garnish with Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with breadsticks or crusty bread for a complete experience. Enjoy!

How to Serve Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

Serving Olive Garden Vegetable Soup can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes, creating a delightful dining atmosphere.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is ideal for dipping into the rich broth of the soup. The texture complements the flavors perfectly.

Garnished with Parmesan Cheese

• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. It’s best added right before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil can brighten the dish and add a burst of freshness. Simply sprinkle on top just before serving.

Served with a Side Salad

• A light side salad featuring mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the soup and adds crunch.

Paired with Breadsticks

• Classic Italian breadsticks are perfect for scooping up the soup. Their soft texture pairs beautifully with every spoonful.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

To make your Olive Garden Vegetable Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and nutritional value. Opt for seasonal veggies whenever possible.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to suit your palate for a personalized touch.
• Let it simmer longer: For deeper flavors, let your soup simmer longer than recommended. This allows all ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Add legumes for protein: Incorporate different beans or lentils to boost protein content while keeping the dish plant-based.
• Explore different broths: Try using flavored vegetable broth or homemade broth to infuse additional depth into the soup.
• Blend for creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup before mixing it back in. This adds body without dairy.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance your Olive Garden Vegetable Soup experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic choice complements the soup’s flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.

2. Caesar Salad
   A fresh Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons, making it a perfect contrast to the warm soup.

3. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Baked stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese add an elegant touch to your meal.

4. Caprese Skewers
   These skewers made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are refreshing and easy to assemble.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and offer additional nutrients alongside your soup.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables provides protein and fiber, complementing the hearty nature of the soup.

7. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad tossed in vinaigrette can provide contrasting flavors while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

8. Focaccia Bread
   Soft focaccia topped with herbs is fantastic for soaking up every drop of your flavorful vegetable soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Olive Garden Vegetable Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Ingredients: Using low-quality or expired ingredients can ruin the flavor. Always check freshness before cooking.
• Bold Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by adding them in stages.
• Bold Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping the seasoning or not adjusting it to your taste can leave the soup bland. Taste as you go and customize it!
• Bold Incorrect Broth: Using a broth that’s too salty or lacking flavor will affect the overall taste. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth for better control.
• Bold Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley can make your soup less visually appealing and flavorful. Don’t overlook this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Olive Garden Vegetable Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Vegetable Soup?

Olive Garden Vegetable Soup is a hearty dish made with fresh vegetables, beans, and rich tomato broth. It’s comforting and healthy!

How do I make Olive Garden Vegetable Soup vegan?

To make Olive Garden Vegetable Soup vegan, simply omit any cheese garnishes and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I add more protein to the soup?

Yes! You can add more beans or even cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.

How long does Olive Garden Vegetable Soup last in the fridge?

It lasts about 4-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Olive Garden Vegetable Soup?

Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months if stored in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

This delicious Olive Garden Vegetable Soup is not only healthy but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort whenever you need it!

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Olive Garden Vegetable Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Olive Garden Vegetable Soup, a delightful medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a quick lunch, offering both nutrition and satisfaction. Each spoonful bursts with vibrant flavors thanks to its blend of Italian seasonings and wholesome ingredients. Versatile enough to be served as a starter or main course, this vegetable soup is an essential addition to your recipe collection. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, it’s a delicious way to nourish yourself while enjoying every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 medium Carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 sticks Celery, chopped
• 1 14.5 oz Can diced tomatoes
• 1 6 oz Can tomato paste
• 4 cups Vegetable broth
• 1 medium Zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup Green beans, chopped
• 1 cup Canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper or to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes to taste
• Optional for garnish: Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes.
3. Add zucchini, green beans, and kidney beans; stir well. Simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with optional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For extra protein, consider adding lentils or more beans. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Feel free to blend half the soup for a creamier texture.