Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and flavorful herbs, this soup provides warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. Its rich tomato broth and hearty ingredients make it suitable for cozy dinners or meal prep. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this delightful minestrone again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort: The rich blend of tomatoes and herbs creates a satisfying depth of flavor that warms the soul.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with seasonal vegetables and beans, this soup is a great source of vitamins and protein.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without stress.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta varieties to customize the soup to your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, making it an excellent option for batch cooking or quick meals during the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful soup, having the right tools is essential. They will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Stirring Spoon
• Measuring Cups/Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: A spacious pot allows for ample room to simmer the soup without splatters, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables while keeping your countertops clean.

Ingredients

For this delightful Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Vegetables

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion (Finely Chopped)
• 3-4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
• 2 Carrots (Diced)
• 2 Celery Stalks (Diced)
• 1/2 Cup French Beans (Cut)
• 1/2 Cup Corn
• 1/2 Cup Zucchini (Diced)

Seasonings and Broth

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

Beans and Pasta

• 1.5 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled or 13.5oz canned beans)
• 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (Fire Roasted Diced preferred)
• 1 Cup Mini Shells (or Ditallini, Mini Elbow shaped Pasta, Orzo or Bulgar)

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 to infuse the oil with flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are golden brown and translucent.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Celery

Add 1 cup of diced carrots and 3/4 cup of diced celery stalks. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Additional Vegetables

Stir in the mixed vegetables including zucchini, corn, and French beans. Let them cook for a few minutes.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add spices: 1 teaspoon each of oregano, thyme, and black pepper powder. Optionally include half a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Also add 1.5 teaspoons of salt and mix well.

Step 6: Add Pasta and Tomatoes

Introduce 1 cup of mini pasta along with the 28 oz fire-roasted San Marzano tomatoes into the pot.

Step 7: Pour in Vegetable Broth

Finally, add in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer on low heat until both pasta and vegetables are cooked through.

Step 8: Thicken Soup

Once thickened after about 15-20 minutes, stir in grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an added touch of richness.

Step 9: Garnish

Garnish your minestrone with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Step 10: Serve

Serve hot alongside toasted buttery bread or grilled cheese for a comforting 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. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Toasted Bread

• Toasted Buttery Bread – A slice of crispy, buttery bread pairs perfectly with the warm soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.
• Garlic Bread – This flavorful addition brings a hint of garlic that complements the herbs in the soup beautifully.

With Grilled Cheese

• Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The gooey cheese melts harmoniously with the hot soup, creating a comforting meal.
• Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese – Add fresh basil for a twist that elevates this classic pairing.

With Chili Cheese Toast

• Chili Cheese Toast – This spicy, cheesy treat adds a kick to your meal and makes for an exciting contrast with the soup.

How to Perfect Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Achieving the perfect bowl of Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is easy with these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Vegetables – Fresh seasonal veggies enhance the flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Tailor the seasonings according to your taste. If you like it spicy, increase the smoked paprika or add red pepper flakes.
• Experiment with Pasta Varieties – While mini shells are great, feel free to use other small pastas like orzo or ditalini for different textures.
• Simmer Longer for Depth – Letting your soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
• Garnish Generously – Fresh parsley or grated cheese on top adds flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip this step!
• Store Properly – To retain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Pairing side dishes with Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can elevate your meal. Consider these tasty options:

1. Crusty French Baguette – A classic choice that’s perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Mixed seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth to your meal.
4. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a crunchy texture that balances well with the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful peppers stuffed with rice and spices make a hearty side option.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip – A creamy dip served with tortilla chips creates a fun appetizer before enjoying your soup.
7. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice enhances the meal without overpowering the minestrone’s flavors.
8. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious and filling complement to the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is perfect.

• Skipping the Sautéing: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic can result in a bland base. Always sauté until golden for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Adding all vegetables at once can lead to mushy textures. Include heartier veggies first and add delicate ones later.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave the soup flat. Always taste before serving and tweak spices as needed.
• Using Regular Tomatoes: Not using fire-roasted tomatoes misses out on deep flavor. Opt for fire-roasted San Marzano tomatoes for best results.
• Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Overcooking pasta in the soup can make it soggy. Cook until al dente, as it will continue cooking while sitting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this minestrone soup better than Olive Garden’s?

This version uses fresh ingredients and fire-roasted tomatoes, enhancing flavor beyond typical restaurant offerings.

Can I customize the vegetables in Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap seasonal vegetables based on your preference or availability.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken or beef broth with vegetable broth, and use plant-based gelling agents if desired.

What types of beans can I use besides kidney beans?

You can use cannellini beans or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor profile in your minestrone soup.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes! This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be mindful of how you store it!

Final Thoughts

Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that offers versatility through various vegetables and spices. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch, making it a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Enjoy this comforting soup with bread or grilled cheese for a complete experience!

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Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Introducing a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is your go-to comfort food for any occasion. Bursting with vibrant vegetables and hearty beans, this flavorful soup features a rich tomato broth that warms the soul with every spoonful. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, it’s made with easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice cooks can master. Customize it to your liking by swapping in seasonal veggies or pasta varieties for a personalized touch. Enjoy this nourishing dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 Medium Yellow Onion (Finely Chopped)
• 3–4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
• 2 Carrots (Diced)
• 2 Celery Stalks (Diced)
• 1/2 Cup French Beans (Cut)
• 1/2 Cup Corn
• 1/2 Cup Zucchini (Diced)
• 1.5 Teaspoons Salt
• 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Oregano
• 1 Teaspoon Thyme
• 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)
• 4 Cups Vegetable Broth
• 1.5 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled or 13.5oz canned beans)
• 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (Fire Roasted Diced preferred)
• 1 Cup Mini Shells (or Ditallini, Mini Elbow shaped Pasta, Orzo or Bulgar)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and add bay leaves.
2. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until golden.
3. Stir in diced carrots and celery; mix well.
4. Add zucchini, corn, and French beans; cook briefly.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using).
6. Incorporate mini pasta and fire-roasted tomatoes into the pot.
7. Pour in vegetable broth; bring to a simmer until pasta is cooked.
8. Optionally stir in grated cheese before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg