Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful, hearty dish perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. Its rich tomato broth, filled with fresh vegetables and beans, creates a comforting meal that appeals to all ages. This soup is not only satisfying but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions—from family dinners to meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious soup ready in under an hour.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup offers a healthy dose of fiber and protein.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the veggies or pasta shapes based on what you have at home.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors only get better as they meld together, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

To make this flavorful minestrone soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan or pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup without spilling over.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking and easier preparation.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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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)

Seasonings

• 1.5 Teaspoons Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Oregano
• 1 Teaspoon Thyme
• 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)

Protein and Pasta

• 1.5 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled [13.5 oz canned beans])
• 1 Cup Mini Shells (or Ditallini, Mini Elbow Pasta, Orzo or Bulgar)

Broth and Tomatoes

• 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (preferably Fire Roasted Diced)
• 4 Cups Vegetable Broth

How to Make Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a pan add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add bay leaves.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next add in the onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are golden and translucent.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Celery

Add 1 cup of diced carrots and 3/4 cup of cut celery stalks. Mix well.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Vegetables

Next, add in the mix of zucchini, corn, and French beans. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add spices including 1 teaspoon each of oregano, thyme, black pepper powder; half a teaspoon of smoked paprika; 1.5 teaspoons of salt; and 1 teaspoon sugar. Mix everything well.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Tomatoes

Add 1 cup of any mini pasta you have on hand along with the 28 oz of fire-roasted San Marzano Tomatoes!

Step 7: Add Broth

Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and simmer on low until the pasta and veggies are cooked through.

Step 8: Thicken the Soup

Once the soup thickens after about 15-20 minutes—and once the veggies and pasta are tender—grate some parmesan cheese over it if desired.

Step 9: Garnish

Garnish your soup with finely chopped fresh parsley for added flavor.

Step 10: Serve

Serve it with toasted buttery bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, or chili cheese toast for a complete meal experience!

How to Serve Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is all about complementing its rich flavors and hearty texture. Pair it with delicious sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil can enhance the Italian flavor profile.

Add Some Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top brings creaminess and depth.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Melty mozzarella can be a delightful addition if you prefer a cheesier soup.

Serve with Bread

• Toasted Bread: Crispy toasted bread provides a perfect vehicle for scooping up the soup.
• Garlic Bread: The garlic flavor pairs beautifully with the minestrone, making it an irresistible side.

Include a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and complements the soup’s heartiness.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Perfecting your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup involves attention to detail and personal touches. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer melds the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap out seasonal vegetables based on availability.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best flavor retention.

Best Side Dishes for Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Soft or crispy, garlic bread is fantastic for dipping into the soup’s rich broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a refreshing accompaniment.
3. Cheesy Toastie: A grilled cheese sandwich adds comforting gooeyness that goes hand-in-hand with minestrone.
4. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and herbs, bruschetta offers a crunchy contrast to the soup.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread adds healthy fats and flavor alongside your soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide an earthy and nutritious balance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes is key to making the perfect Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead: Failing to chop vegetables and measure ingredients can lead to confusion while cooking. Always prep before you start.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp by adding them at the right time.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Without proper spices, your soup may taste bland. Don’t forget to use salt, pepper, and herbs generously for flavor.
• Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Adding pasta too early can lead to overcooked noodles. Add it when the vegetables are nearly done for perfect texture.
• Not Using Quality Tomatoes: Low-quality tomatoes can spoil your broth’s flavor. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh alternatives when possible.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishes add freshness and visual appeal. A sprinkle of parsley or a dash of olive oil makes a huge difference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat on high for 2-3 minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious soup.

What makes this soup better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

This soup is packed with fresh ingredients and robust flavors, making it heartier and tastier than typical restaurant versions.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as spinach or bell peppers, based on your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth, and keep all other ingredients plant-based.

What pasta works best in Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Mini shell pasta works great, but you can also use ditalini, mini elbows, or even whole grain options as per your choice.

Final Thoughts

This Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Its hearty nature makes it a comforting meal that everyone will love—be sure to give it a try!