Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe—Better Than the Original!
Are you a fan of Olive Garden’s famous minestrone soup? This classic soup is a staple at the restaurant, but now you can recreate it at home with this easy Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe! Filled with hearty vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth, this copycat version is packed with flavor and nutrition, and many say it tastes even better than the original.
Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe
This homemade Olive Garden minestrone soup is not only delicious but also:
- Healthy: Loaded with vegetables, beans, and whole grains, it’s a nutrient-packed meal.
- Hearty: This soup is a complete meal on its own, perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy restaurant-quality soup right at home.
- Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly: This soup is naturally vegan and vegetarian, making it a versatile dish for a variety of diets.
- Budget-Friendly: All the ingredients are affordable and readily available, making this an economical option for feeding the whole family.
Ingredients for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe:
Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow squash, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Beans
- 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow pasta)
Optional Toppings
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup – Step-by-Step
Here’s the step-by-step process for making this delicious Olive Garden minestrone soup at home:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their aromas.
Step 2: Add the Zucchini and Seasonings
Next, add the diced zucchini and yellow squash to the pot. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and some salt and pepper. Cook everything for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the seasonings to blend with the vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Beans and Pasta
Now, it’s time to add the beans and pasta. Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and cannellini beans, along with the pasta. Simmer the soup for another 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
Step 5: Add the Spinach and Adjust the Seasoning
In the final few minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach. Let it wilt in the hot soup, which will take about 2-3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Olive Garden minestrone soup is now ready to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and if desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor. Serve with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Making the Best Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
To make sure your Olive Garden minestrone soup turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips:
1. Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients
Since this soup is packed with vegetables, it’s important to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh spinach, crisp zucchini, and flavorful garlic will enhance the overall taste of the soup.
2. Choose the Right Pasta
Small pasta like ditalini or elbow pasta works best for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the broth, but make sure not to overcook them, as you want the pasta to have a nice bite.
3. Make It Gluten-Free
If you need a gluten-free version, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety. The rest of the soup is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap.
4. Add Extra Vegetables
Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables. Green beans, peas, or even potatoes make great additions. You can also use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
5. Make It Ahead of Time
This soup tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time. The flavors will continue to develop, and you’ll have a quick, healthy meal ready to go.
Nutritional Information for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
This Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of its health benefits:
- High in Fiber: Thanks to the beans and vegetables, this soup is packed with fiber, which supports healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, C, and potassium.
- Low in Calories: This soup is naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
- Vegan and Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally plant-based, making it suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets. Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative for a fully vegan version.
Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Can I Freeze Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?
Yes! This Olive Garden minestrone soup freezes beautifully. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
How Long Does Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Last?
This soup will last in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to thin it out, as the pasta can absorb some of the liquid.
Can I Add Meat to This Soup?
While the traditional Olive Garden minestrone soup is vegetarian, you can certainly add meat if you prefer. Italian sausage or ground beef would be great additions for extra protein and flavor.
What Kind of Beans Are Used in Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?
This recipe calls for both kidney beans and cannellini beans, which provide a creamy texture and heartiness to the soup. However, you can use other types of beans, such as black beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Best Olive Garden Minestrone Soup at Home
There you have it—a copycat Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe that’s easy to make, loaded with healthy ingredients, and tastes even better than the restaurant version! Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite.
Serve it with your favorite breadsticks or salad, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. With simple, wholesome ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this Olive Garden minestrone soup recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, satisfying meal.
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