Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for any occasion, this soup offers a comforting taste of Italian cuisine right in your kitchen. Packed with seasonal veggies and pasta, it’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with nutritious vegetables and beans, providing a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the vegetables or pasta based on what you have at home, making it flexible for all tastes.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the flavors, ensuring every spoonful is delicious.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, allowing you to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this delightful soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients to combine well.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and easy cutting of vegetables, making prep work faster.

 

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.

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)

Spices & Seasoning

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

Beans & Tomatoes

• 1.5 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled – 13.5 oz canned beans)
• 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (Better if you can find Fire Roasted Diced)

Pasta & Broth

• 1 Cup Mini Shells (You can also use Ditallini, Mini Elbow shaped Pasta, Orzo or Bulgar)
• 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

Add in the mix of zucchini, corn, and French beans.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add spices including oregano, thyme, black pepper powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and sugar. Mix everything well.

Step 6: Introduce Pasta and Tomatoes

Add 1 cup of any mini pasta you have on hand along with the fire-roasted San Marzano tomatoes.

Step 7: Simmer with 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 roughly 15-20 minutes of cooking time, add grated cheese if desired.

Step 9: Garnish

Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Step 10: Serve

Serve alongside toasted buttery bread, grilled cheese, garlic bread or chili cheese toast for an extra treat!

How to Serve Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Serving your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful experience. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

With Toasted Bread

• Toasted bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the soup’s warmth. You can choose a rustic loaf or a baguette for an extra crunch.

With Grilled Cheese

• A classic grilled cheese sandwich makes for a comforting side. The gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the thick broth of the soup.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread offers a flavorful twist, enhancing the overall taste with its buttery, garlicky goodness. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup.

With Chili Cheese Toast

• This indulgent option combines melted cheese and spicy chili on toasted bread. It adds a kick to your meal that’s hard to resist.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad provides freshness and lightness alongside the hearty soup. Consider using mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for balance.

How to Perfect Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

To make your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup even better, consider these tips for perfection:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition, making the soup vibrant and delicious.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust spices like oregano or thyme based on your preference to customize the flavor profile.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For perfect pasta texture, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables that you love or have on hand for additional nutrients and flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more vegetable broth; if you like it thicker, let it simmer longer without a lid.

Best Side Dishes for Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

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

1. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this classic Italian appetizer offers bright flavors that contrast beautifully with the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and are easy to prepare while complementing the minestrone’s flavors.
4. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins are perfect for soaking up the broth, making them an excellent accompaniment.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa and vegetables, stuffed peppers make for a hearty side dish that pairs well with minestrone.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft dough baked with garlic and cheese creates an irresistible side that’s perfect for dipping in the soup.
7. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy dip served with pita chips or veggies adds richness to your meal while keeping it lighthearted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup experience. Here are a few key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; cook until they turn golden and aromatic.
• Using old vegetables: Fresh ingredients make a difference. Always choose seasonal veggies for the best taste and texture in your soup.
• Neglecting seasoning: Proper seasoning is crucial. Taste your soup as it cooks, adjusting salt and spices to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Overcooking the pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, add it later in the cooking process. Monitor it closely so it’s perfectly al dente when serving.
• Ignoring broth quality: The broth is the foundation of your soup. Use good-quality vegetable broth for a rich flavor that complements your ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can be kept for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers some common queries about making this delicious soup.

What makes this soup better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

This recipe offers a fresher mix of seasonal vegetables and customizable flavors, enhancing the classic taste you love even more.

Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?

Yes! Simply ensure all ingredients used are plant-based, including broth and any additional toppings like cheese.

How do I customize my Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also switch up the beans or pasta types as desired.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

The total time for making Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Absolutely! Using frozen vegetables is a great option that can save time while still providing nutritional value and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with bread, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to any table. Try experimenting with different veggies or pasta shapes to make it your own!