Why Make This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a hearty and nutritious minestrone like the one that takes inspiration from Olive Garden. This dish combines vibrant vegetables, tender beans, and delightful pasta in a savory broth that’s not only delicious but also perfectly wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a starter for a larger Italian feast, this minestrone soup brings together a symphony of flavors and textures that will warm both your heart and home. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that allows you to customize it according to your pantry or taste preferences.
How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Making this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a straightforward process, and even beginner cooks will feel accomplished whipping up this hearty dish. You’ll sauté fresh vegetables to release their natural sweetness, add flavorful seasonings, and let everything meld together in a flavorful broth. The best part? Your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting aromas, making it hard to resist diving right in.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup small pasta (shells or ditalini)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add zucchini, green beans, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes. Mix thoroughly, then pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in kidney beans and cannellini beans. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 more minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, optionally with Parmesan cheese and crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 1.5 cups):
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 10g
How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests at a dinner party. It pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch.
How to Store Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
To store any leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in portioned containers. It will last in the freezer for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the soup’s original consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand—bell peppers, peas, or corn all work wonderfully as alternatives.
- Pasta Tips: If you want to make the soup gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free pasta option and check that your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.
- Add Some Heat: For a kick of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs like basil or parsley, throw some in just before serving for added flavor and color.
Delicious Variations
- Protein Boost: Add diced cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving for a creamy texture.
- Italian Sausage: Brown some Italian sausage in the pot before adding the vegetables for a meaty version of this soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This minestrone soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge.
2. How can I thicken my minestrone soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more vegetables or purée a portion of the soup and stir it back in. Alternatively, you can add more pasta.
3. Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and doesn’t include any animal products.
4. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Sure! Frozen vegetables are a convenient option and can be used in place of fresh ones without compromising the taste.
5. What should I serve with the minestrone soup?
Try serving it with warm, crusty bread, a light salad, or alongside a cheese platter for a well-rounded meal.
6. Can I use beef broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can use beef broth for a different flavor profile, although it will no longer be a vegan dish.
7. How do I handle leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
8. What’s the best type of pasta for minestrone?
Small pasta shapes like shells, ditalini, or elbow macaroni work best to soak up the broth.
9. Can I add cheese to the soup while cooking?
While it’s best to serve cheese as a topping, you can stir in some grated Parmesan during the last few minutes of simmering for added flavor.
10. Is this soup gluten-free?
It is not gluten-free as it typically contains pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful recipe that offers a burst of flavors with each spoonful. It’s packed with nutritious vegetables, satisfying beans, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. By trying out this recipe, you can create a comforting soup that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Don’t forget to share your soup experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!