Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is the perfect dish to warm your soul and please your palate. This hearty, vegetable-packed soup is not only simple to prepare, but it also combines fresh ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl on a chilly evening or a light yet satisfying lunch option, this minestrone soup is sure to delight. Let’s dive into the details of this Olive Garden favorite!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams
- Fat: 4 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful blend of seasonal vegetables and wholesome ingredients. Not only is it brimming with vibrant colors and textures, but it also offers a comforting taste that is reminiscent of cozy dinners at your favorite Italian restaurant. The wonderful balance of flavors from the herbs and the heartiness of the beans and pasta makes this soup not just a meal, but an experience to savor. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be tailored to your taste preferences, ensuring everyone in your family will love it!
How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 2: Mixing
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma of cooked garlic will fill your kitchen, creating a lovely base for the soup.
Step 3: Cooking
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, green beans, zucchini, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Finishing
Stir in the cooked pasta just before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. The bright green from the parsley adds a lovely touch and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Serve your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup hot, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread or a green salad. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, adding a rich, savory flavor to the soup. This dish is not only a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
How to Store Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
- Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor—feel free to swap out green beans and zucchini for whatever is fresh and available.
- If you want a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or more beans.
- Adjust the level of seasoning to your preference; a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- To save time, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen versions.
- For a creamier soup, feel free to add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian: Keep it vegetarian-friendly by ensuring your vegetable broth is labeled as such.
- Pasta Alternative: If you’re avoiding gluten, replace the small pasta with quinoa or omit the pasta altogether.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier option.
- Spicy Kick: Include some diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage for a spicy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day ahead and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. -
What can I substitute for the cannellini beans?
You can use kidney beans, chickpeas, or any other bean of your choice as a substitute. -
How can I make this soup vegan?
The soup is already vegan-friendly by using vegetable broth and not including any animal products. Just ensure any added ingredients like pasta or garnishes are also vegan. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with any veggies you have on hand, such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers. -
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni works best because it cooks quickly and blends well with the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Conclusion
Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delicious and heartwarming dish that showcases the joy of home cooking. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a simple meal at home. So grab your favorite ingredients, channel your inner chef, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a comforting bowl of this delectable soup! Happy cooking!
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Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty, vegetable-packed soup that combines fresh ingredients for a comforting taste reminiscent of cozy dinners at an Italian restaurant.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, green beans, zucchini, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Just before serving, stir in the cooked pasta. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
