Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

This comforting Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its hearty components and classic Italian seasoning, it is not only delicious but also ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Minestrone Soup can be made in just 45 minutes, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and beans, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Versatile Meal: Customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand; it’s great with various vegetables or pasta shapes.
• Hearty Comfort Food: This soup warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly days.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are affordable, making this recipe easy on your wallet while still being satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A large pot allows you to sauté vegetables and simmer the soup comfortably without overflow.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping veggies, ensuring precision and safety.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.
• Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving the soup into bowls without spills.

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Ingredients

To create this amazing Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Fresh 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)

Beans and Broth

• 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 15 oz canned Great Northern beans (drained)
• 15 oz canned Kidney beans (drained)

Seasonings and 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: Incorporate Broth and Beans

1. Pour in the vegetable broth.
2. Add both kidney and Great Northern beans.
3. Stir in pasta to combine all ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until pasta is tender. If it thickens too much, add up to 2 more cups of water to adjust consistency.

Step 4: Infuse Garlic Flavor

1. Press or stir in minced garlic into the pot.
2. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes so that garlic fully infuses its flavor.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once everything is tender and well combined, ladle the minestrone soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

Minestrone soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you are enjoying it as a main course or as an appetizer, there are many delightful accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The texture complements the soup’s broth perfectly.

Topped with Parmesan

• Add freshly grated cheese on top before serving. It adds a rich flavor and creamy texture to the soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh, aromatic touch. This enhances both the appearance and taste.

As a Starter

• Serve in small bowls as an appetizer before the main meal. This allows guests to enjoy a taste of Italy right at the beginning.

Paired with Salad

• Combine with a simple green salad. The freshness of the salad balances well with the hearty soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate the flavors even more.

How to Perfect Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

Achieving the perfect minestrone soup requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables provide better flavor and nutrients than canned options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust your seasonings throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps flavors meld beautifully.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze portions of soup in individual containers for quick meals later on.

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

Pairing side dishes with minestrone soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic side is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth, making every bite more enjoyable.

2. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs adds a crunchy texture that complements the soup’s softness.

4. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and dressing offer a nice crunch alongside the hearty minestrone.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted veggies like bell peppers and carrots make for a colorful and nutritious side dish.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with grains and beans for an extra protein boost that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

7. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting side dish that blends well with minestrone.

8. Focaccia Bread
   Soft focaccia infused with herbs adds flavor and is excellent for dipping into your delicious minestrone soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) turns out perfectly, steer clear of these common pitfalls.

• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting your vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Dice all veggies into similar small cubes for even tenderness.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can make it mushy. Add pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Neglecting broth quality: Using low-quality broth results in a less flavorful soup. Choose a good vegetable broth for a richer taste.
• Rushing the simmering process: Not allowing enough time for flavors to meld can impact taste. Simmer for at least 20 minutes to develop a deep flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Minestrone Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe?

Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe is a hearty Italian-style soup made with fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a savory tomato broth.

How long does it take to make this Minestrone Soup?

This recipe can be prepared in under one hour, including both prep and cooking time.

Can I customize the ingredients in this Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like spinach or green beans, or swap beans based on your preference.

Is this Minestrone Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator and freezer, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat) recipe is not only comforting but also versatile and healthy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans to suit your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!