Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness. With its rich tomato broth and an array of seasonal vegetables, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a healthy lunch option. This recipe stands out with its hearty texture and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal choice for any occasion, from family gatherings to meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Nutrients: This soup is loaded with vegetables and beans, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
• Flavorful Broth: The herby tomato broth brings a burst of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have at home or what’s in season.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this soup quick and straightforward for any cook.
• Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious minestrone soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure that your soup comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even mixing.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe space for cutting vegetables, maintaining hygiene while prepping.

Ingredients

This thick vegetable soup is made in a hearty and herby thick tomato broth, which is packed with seasonal vegetables, cannellini, or red kidney beans, and some small variety of pasta.

For the Base

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion (Finely Chopped)
• 3-4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)

Vegetables

• 2 Carrots (Diced)
• 2 Celery Stalks (Diced)
• 1/2 Cup French Beans (Cut)
• 1/2 Cup Corn
• 1/2 Cup Zucchini (Diced)

Seasoning & Pasta

• 1.5 Teaspoons Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Oregano
• 1 Teaspoon Thyme
• 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Optional)
• 1 Cup Mini Shells (or Ditallini, Elbow Pasta, Orzo, Bulgar)

Beans & Tomatoes

• 1.5 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled or Canned)
• 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (Fire Roasted Diced preferred)
• 4 Cups Vegetable Broth

How to Make Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add bay leaves to infuse their flavor into the oil.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become golden and translucent.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Celery

Next, incorporate diced carrots and cut celery stalks into the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Include More Vegetables

Add in the mix of zucchini, corn, and french beans. Stir everything together until combined.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Sprinkle in oregano, thyme, black pepper powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and sugar. Stir well to ensure that spices coat all vegetables evenly.

Step 6: Add Pasta and Tomatoes

Include 1 cup of mini pasta along with the fire-roasted San Marzano tomatoes. Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 7: Pour in Vegetable Broth

Add 4 cups of vegetable broth to the mixture. Bring everything to a simmer on low heat until cooked through.

Step 8: Finish Cooking

Let it simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes until both pasta and vegetables are tender.

Step 9: Garnish

Once cooked, garnish your soup with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.

Step 10: Serve

Serve hot alongside toasted buttery bread or grilled cheese for a delightful meal experience.

How to Serve Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal. This soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and texture.

With Fresh Herbs

• Use freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with toasted buttery bread for a crunchy contrast that complements the soup’s richness.

With Grilled Cheese

• Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting, nostalgic twist that kids and adults alike will love.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated cheese (like parmesan) over the soup just before serving for added creaminess and taste.

With Chili Cheese Toast

• For those who like a bit of spice, serve alongside chili cheese toast to kick up the flavor profile.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy the soup as a standalone dish; it’s filling enough to satisfy as your main course.

How to Perfect Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

To ensure your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and quality broth to enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak spices based on personal preference for an optimal flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer firmer pasta, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors. Just be mindful not to overcook the veggies.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for extra nutrition and variety.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The soup tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds a savory crunch; perfect for dipping into the broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A fresh salad with crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing that balances the warmth of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing taste that contrasts beautifully with the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a nutritious companion.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor while keeping your meal plant-based.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: These cheesy delights bring comfort and can be easily customized with your favorite fillings.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad incorporating Mediterranean flavors provides a nice textural contrast.
8. Grilled Polenta: Creamy polenta squares grilled until crispy offer a unique twist that pairs nicely with minestrone soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup that everyone will love. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances flavor. Take the time to do this for a richer taste.
• Overcooking vegetables – Adding all vegetables at once can lead to mushiness. Add heartier veggies first and delicate ones later.
• Using low-quality broth – The broth is a key flavor component. Opt for a good-quality vegetable broth to elevate your soup’s taste.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preference for the best flavor.
• Forgetting pasta cooking time – Cooking pasta directly in the soup can lead to overcooked noodles. Ensure they are just al dente for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will last up to 3-5 days.

Freezing Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup:

Can I make Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better when made a day ahead as flavors meld together.

What vegetables can I add to my minestrone soup?

Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers based on your preference.

How do I thicken Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

To thicken your soup, simmer it longer or mash some beans against the side of the pot before stirring them back in.

Is this minestrone soup vegan-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based and does not contain any animal products.

How long does it take to cook Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 45 minutes.

Final Thoughts

The Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only hearty but also versatile. Packed with seasonal vegetables and rich flavors, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta types for a personal touch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is your go-to dish for a warm, wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. This delightful soup features a rich tomato broth filled with seasonal vegetables, hearty beans, and pasta, offering a satisfying texture that’s perfect for cozy dinners or healthy lunches. Each spoonful is a comforting embrace, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week ahead. Easy to prepare and highly customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand, this minestrone will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3–4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 1/2 cup zucchini (diced)
• 1/2 cup corn
• 1/2 cup French beans (cut)
• 1.5 cups red kidney beans (cooked or canned)
• 28 oz fire-roasted San Marzano tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mini pasta (such as shells or elbow)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add bay leaves to infuse.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic until golden.
3. Stir in diced carrots and celery; cook until softened.
4. Add zucchini, corn, and French beans; mix well.
5. Season with oregano, thyme, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
6. Incorporate mini pasta and fire-roasted tomatoes; stir thoroughly.
7. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
8. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes until pasta and vegetables are tender.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg