After years of trying different soup recipes, I think I’ve found the one that ticks all the boxes for me. This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup copycat is not only hearty and comforting but also packed with vibrant flavors. I made it last week, and as the aroma filled my kitchen, I couldn’t wait to dig in.
It’s a vegetable-loaded dish, making it great for anyone looking to sneak in more plants into their diet. And the best part? It tastes just like the restaurant version, if not better! With the right balance of veggies, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth, this soup has quickly become a go-to recipe for me.
Also, whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is the perfect fit. Let me walk you through why I love it and how you can recreate this flavorful masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe is packed with benefits that will make it a staple in your kitchen. Here are some reasons to fall in love with it:
1. It’s Easy to Prepare
Even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen, this recipe is as straightforward as it gets. With a handful of basic steps like chopping, sautéing, and simmering, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality soup ready in no time.
2. It’s Perfectly Versatile
You can customize this soup with whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s also a fantastic way to make use of seasonal produce, meaning it’s always fresh and unique!
3. Comfort Food that’s Healthy
This soup is the perfect balance of comforting and nutritious. Loaded with nutrient-rich veggies, fiber-filled beans, and satisfying pasta, it keeps you feeling full without being heavy.
4. Diet-Friendly
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, this soup fits the bill. You can even tweak it to make it gluten-free or low-carb if needed.
5. Bursting with Flavor
The tomato broth, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic, ties everything together in a way that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Each bite delivers a delicious mix of textures, from tender pasta to velvety beans and crisp vegetables.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need to whip up this homemade soup masterpiece!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to bring this dish to life.
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Celery
- Carrots
- Zucchini
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Diced tomatoes
- Vegetable broth
- Tomato paste
- Italian seasoning
- Small white beans
- Kidney beans
- Green beans
- Small shell pasta
- Baby spinach leaves
- Fresh parsley
Variations
If you’d like to switch things up, here are some ideas to make this recipe fit your needs or preferences!
- Protein Additions: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey for a heartier version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or skip it altogether and add diced potatoes instead.
- Low-Carb Twist: Swap out pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to make it even lighter!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Pot – For simmering all your ingredients to perfection.
- Cutting Board and Knife – To chop all the veggies evenly.
- Wooden Spoon – Perfect for stirring without damaging your pot.
How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?
Making this soup is super simple and highly rewarding. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a warm bowl of deliciousness ready in no time!
1. Prepare the Vegetables 🥕
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onions, celery, carrots, and zucchini. Sauté until they’re tender, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
2. Add the Broth 🍅
Pour in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices), vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in some Italian seasoning for that authentic flavor. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
3. Toss in the Beans and Pasta 🌿
Add the small white beans, kidney beans, and green beans to the pot. Stir in the pasta and allow everything to cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
4. Finish it with Spinach and Parsley 🌱
Once the pasta and vegetables are tender, stir in the spinach leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they wilt beautifully into the soup. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Chop Evenly: Try to cut your veggies into similar sizes, so they cook evenly and maintain their texture.
- Rinse the Beans: Remember to drain and rinse your canned beans to eliminate any unnecessary sodium and improve the soup’s flavor balance.
- Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): If you’re making this soup ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it only when serving. This prevents it from getting mushy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your broth before adding pasta to ensure the seasoning is perfect. A pinch of extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
How to Serve Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?
For the best experience, serve this soup warm with crusty garlic bread or freshly baked dinner rolls. You can also top each bowl with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of richness. Want to fancy it up? Use a pretty soup bowl and garnish with a few fresh parsley leaves or a lemon wedge on the side.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is packed with wholesome goodness. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition facts!
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fat: 5 g
Make Ahead and Storage
This soup is a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
- Freezing: To freeze, skip adding the pasta during cooking. Store the soup in freezer-friendly containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook some fresh pasta and stir it into the thawed soup!
This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining convenience, flavor, and health all in one bowl. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a firm favorite in your recipe lineup. Happy cooking!