This comforting Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a blend of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, this dish is not only hearty but also healthy. With classic Italian seasonings and an easy preparation process, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup can be ready in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of vegetables, beans, and pasta creates a delicious mix that’s bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
- Nutritious Option: Packed with vitamins and fiber from the veggies and beans, this recipe is a healthy choice for all ages.
- Comfort Food: Enjoy it warm on chilly days; it’s like a hug in a bowl!
Tools and Preparation
To make this Minestrone Soup efficiently, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté vegetables without crowding, ensuring even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
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 Ingredients
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 15 oz canned Great Northern beans (drained)
- 15 oz canned Kidney beans (drained)
Broth & Seasonings
- 32 oz vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp dry basil
Aromatics & Oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Pasta
- 1/2 cup pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni recommended)
How to Make Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Pot
- Preheat your large pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once heated, add diced zucchini, carrots, celery, and onions.
- Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and dry basil to evenly distribute flavors.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Beans
- Pour in the vegetable broth.
- Add both kidney and Great Northern beans.
- Mix in the pasta and stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Garlic
- Press or stir in minced garlic into the pot.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes for full flavor infusion.
Step 5: Serve Your Soup
Once everything is tender and well combined, ladle the minestrone soup into bowls. Enjoy warm for a comforting meal that’s perfect any time of year!
How to Serve Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
Minestrone soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or pairing it with sides, this delightful soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair your minestrone soup with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for dipping!
Over Rice
- For an alternative twist, serve the minestrone over steamed rice. This adds a hearty touch and makes the dish even more filling.
Topped with Greens
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale on top just before serving. This enhances the nutritional value and adds vibrant color to the dish.
As a Starter
- Consider serving minestrone soup as an appetizer before a larger Italian meal. Its rich flavors set the tone for what’s to come.
How to Perfect Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
Perfecting your minestrone soup involves attention to detail and creativity. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making skills.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables bring out the best flavors in your soup. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of salt or extra herbs can enhance the flavor profile.
Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it to the soup right before serving.
Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on your preference. Chickpeas or black beans can add variety to your dish.
Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
Serving minestrone soup alongside complementary dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious side options that pair well with this comforting soup.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful soup.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast that balances well with the warmth of the minestrone.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a light and flavorful side.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an earthy taste that complements the savory notes of minestrone.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and vegetables make for a hearty side dish.
Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta offers brightness that pairs beautifully with minestrone soup.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon zest provides a healthy balance to your meal.
Focaccia Bread: Soft and fragrant focaccia serves as another excellent option for soaking up all those delicious broth flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Neglecting the Vegetables: Not chopping vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to dice all veggies into small, equal-sized pieces for even texture.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Some people skip sautéing the vegetables at the beginning. This step enhances flavor; be sure to sauté until they’re soft and aromatic.
- Not Adjusting Consistency: The soup may thicken too much while cooking. Keep an eye on it and add water as needed for your desired consistency.
- Forgetting Seasonings: Under-seasoning can make the soup bland. Use Italian seasoning and basil generously for a richer flavor.
- Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Overcooking pasta can result in mushy texture. Add it towards the end of cooking and keep an eye on it.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- Can be kept for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding this delicious Minestrone Soup recipe.
How do I make Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe vegetarian?
You can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth and ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
Can I add more vegetables to the Minestrone Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to include any of your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
What type of beans work best in this Minestrone Soup?
Great Northern beans and Kidney beans are excellent choices due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors.
How long does it take to make Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe?
This comforting soup takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta that makes for a wholesome meal. Its versatility allows you to customize with your favorite ingredients or spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how comforting it is!
Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Minestrone Soup, inspired by the beloved Olive Garden recipe. Packed with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, nutrient-rich beans, and hearty pasta, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. The rich tomato broth infused with classic Italian seasonings makes every spoonful a delight. Plus, it’s quick to prepare in under an hour, ensuring you can enjoy a wholesome meal even on busy weeknights. Customize it with seasonal veggies for a personal touch and serve it warm as a delicious hug in a bowl!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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)
- 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 pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Sauté diced zucchini, carrots, celery, and onions for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in canned tomatoes along with juices, Italian seasoning, and dry basil.
- Add vegetable broth and both bean types; mix well.
- Incorporate pasta and bring to a simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and simmer for another 10 minutes until flavors meld together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg