Name: Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3/4 cup onion, diced; 1/2 cup celery, sliced; 1/2 cup carrots, peeled, quartered and sliced; 1 zucchini, quartered and sliced; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; salt and pepper to taste; 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 (15 ounce) can small white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup frozen cut green beans; 1/2 cup small shell pasta; 2 cups baby spinach leaves; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Introduction to Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

As a busy mom and passionate home cook, I know how precious time can be in our daily lives. That’s why I adore whipping up a big pot of Olive Garden Minestrone Soup. It’s not just a bowl of comfort; it’s a wholesome meal that’s packed with vibrant vegetables and delightful flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a hectic day or a delicious dish to impress your loved ones, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every spoonful. Let’s dive into how to create this heartwarming favorite that’s sure to be a hit in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a lifesaver when you’re juggling a busy schedule. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes once you’re in the kitchen. The rich flavors will make your taste buds dance, while the medley of vegetables and beans ensures a healthy, filling meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some nutrients into your family’s diet without them even noticing—win-win!

Ingredients for Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup recipe is filled with a colorful array of ingredients, each one playing a vital role in creating that comforting bowl of goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Olive oil: A touch of rich flavor helps sauté the veggies and sets the base for your soup.
Onion: Diced onion adds a sweet, aromatic depth, forming a lovely foundation for your soup.
Celery: With its crunchy texture and refreshing taste, celery brings a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
Carrots: Peeled, quartered, and sliced, carrots add sweetness, making this soup irresistible.
Zucchini: Bright and colorful, zucchini offers a pop of green and a light, tender bite.
Garlic: Minced garlic elevates the soup’s taste with its aromatic and savory notes.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors, making each ingredient shine.
Diced tomatoes: Canned for convenience, they bring acidity and sweetness, enhancing the soup’s body.
Vegetable broth: The soul of your soup, providing depth and richness without added meat.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and gives the soup a hearty texture.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy right into your kitchen.
White beans: Small and creamy, they add protein and a nice contrast to the softer veggies.
Kidney beans: Bold in flavor, they offer a vibrant color and robust texture.
Green beans: Frozen cut green beans provide a quick and easy addition, retaining that fresh crunch.
Small shell pasta: Perfect little shapes that hold onto the soup broth, making each bite delightful.
Baby spinach: A nutritional powerhouse, it wilts beautifully and blends seamlessly with the soup.
Parsley: Freshly chopped for a burst of color and a hint of brightness to finish the dish.

Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste! Maybe swap out the zucchini for bell peppers, or throw in some kale instead of spinach. Don’t forget, you can find the exact quantities listed at the bottom, ready for printing!

How to Make Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Creating your own Olive Garden Minestrone Soup at home is a breeze! With a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. Let’s explore how to bring this nourishing recipe to life!

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

First, heat up a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. It should shimmer like a calm lake on a sunny day!

Next, toss in your diced onion, sliced celery, quartered carrots, and zucchini. Stir them around and let them cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want the veggies to become tender, releasing their natural sweetness and filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.

Step 2: Season and Add Garlic

Once your vegetables have softened, it’s time to elevate the flavors. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. You’ll want the beautiful scent of garlic to envelop you. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, just long enough for the garlic to become fragrant and dance with the other veggies.

Step 3: Combine Tomato Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the star ingredients! Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, allowing the ingredients to mingle like old friends at a reunion.

Bring this delightful mixture to a gentle simmer. A bubbling pot of color is so inviting!

Step 4: Add Beans and Pasta

Now for the protein-packed additions. Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans, kidney beans, frozen green beans, and small shell pasta. I love how the pasta curls and grabs the broth, creating a burst of flavor in each bite.

Let the soup simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the pasta cooks, soaking up all that exquisite flavor while the veggies soften further.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Parsley

Your kitchen must smell divine by now! Time for the final touch – stir in the baby spinach leaves and let them wilt down for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a beautiful pop of color and brightness to your Olive Garden Minestrone Soup that’s simply irresistible. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Always prep your ingredients before cooking to keep things smooth and stress-free.
Don’t skip the seasoning! Salt and pepper are essential for flavor enhancement.
For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them.
Feel free to adjust cooking times based on your stove and pot size for perfect veggies.
Leftovers taste even better as flavors meld, making it a win for next-day meals!

Equipment Needed

Large pot: A Dutch oven works beautifully, but any big pot will do.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring, but a spatula or silicone spoon will work too.
Chopping board: For prepping your veggies, any sturdy surface gets the job done.
Knife: A chef’s knife or any sharp knife for chopping ingredients.

Variations

Protein boost: Add cooked sausage or diced chicken for an extra protein kick.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make the soup suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Spicy twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Vegetarian delight: Enhance flavor with additional vegetables like bell peppers, kale, or corn.
Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich and velvety texture.

Serving Suggestions

Crusty bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a light contrast.
Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Garnish individual bowls with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flair.

FAQs about Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

As you embark on your culinary journey with Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, you might have a few questions floating around in your mind. Here are some common ones that I’ve encountered along the way!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup gets even better after sitting for a day. Just store it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. It’s a fantastic meal prep option, perfect for busy weeks.

What can I use if I don’t have vegetable broth?
If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option. Alternatively, homemade broth or even just water with extra seasonings can suffice!

Is Olive Garden Minestrone Soup healthy?
Definitely! This soup is packed with vegetables and beans, making it a nutrient-rich option. Plus, it’s low in calories, yet filling—perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure to let the soup cool, and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can usually be stored for up to three months. Just thaw before serving!

How can I adjust the flavors to suit my taste?
Feel free to add herbs and spices like basil or oregano, adjust the salt, or even throw in some diced bell peppers or corn. Personalizing this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is part of the joy!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is more than just making a meal; it’s about nurturing a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home. Each ingredient sings in harmony, bringing hearty comfort to your family table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or sharing it with friends, this soup has a way of enveloping you in its savory embrace. Plus, knowing it’s packed with healthy veggies makes each spoonful feel like a gift of goodness. I’m excited for you to experience the joy this recipe brings, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas and your hearts with warmth!