This Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty and healthy meal. Packed with vibrant vegetables, beans, and flavorful herbs, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. It offers a rich, thick tomato broth that can warm you up on chilly days, making it a must-try for any soup lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a deliciously robust flavor.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for all home cooks.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes for a personal touch.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber and vitamins from the veggies and beans, it’s a healthy option for everyone.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing space for all ingredients to blend together.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
- Chopping board: Provides a safe area to cut all your vegetables quickly and efficiently.
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 & Beans
- 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 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled (13.5oz canned beans))
Spices & Broth
- 1.5 Teaspoons Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Oregano
- 1 Teaspoon Thyme
- 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)
- 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (Better if you can find Fire Roasted Diced)
- 4 Cups Vegetable Broth
Pasta
- 1 Cup Mini Shells (You can also use Ditallini, Mini Elbow shaped Pasta, Orzo or Bulgar)
How to Make Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a pan add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add bay leaves. Next add in the onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are golden and translucent.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add 1 cup of diced carrots and 3/4 cup of cut celery stalks. Mix well. Next, incorporate the mix of zucchini, corn, and french beans.
Step 3: Seasoning Time
Add spices: 1 teaspoon each of oregano, thyme, and black pepper powder. You may also add half a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Then add 1.5 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon sugar. Mix everything thoroughly.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
Add 1 cup of any mini pasta you have on hand along with 28 oz of fire-roasted San Marzano Tomatoes!
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and let it simmer on low heat until the pasta and veggies are cooked through.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the soup thickens and all ingredients are cooked—roughly after 15-20 minutes—add some grated parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with finely chopped fresh leaf parsley before serving.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Serve it alongside toasted buttery bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, garlic bread, or chili cheese toast for an unforgettable meal!
How to Serve Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Serving your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can enhance the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Toasted Bread
- Serve the soup alongside toasted buttered bread. The crispy texture complements the thick broth perfectly.
With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- A classic pairing, grilled cheese sandwiches offer a melty, gooey contrast to the hearty soup.
With Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread adds a savory crunch, making it an excellent choice for dipping into the soup.
With Chili Cheese Toast
- For those who like a little heat, chili cheese toast provides a spicy kick that pairs well with the minestrone.
Garnished with Fresh Parsley
- Top each bowl of soup with finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
How to Perfect Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Perfecting your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup involves a few simple tricks that can elevate its flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance both the taste and nutrition of your soup.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjusting salt, pepper, and herbs ensures a balanced flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: Letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Pasta Types: Different pasta shapes can change the texture and presentation of your soup.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Finish with Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving adds richness and depth to each bowl.
Best Side Dishes for Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:
Mixed Green Salad
A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup and adds freshness.Roasted Vegetables
Roasted seasonal vegetables provide additional flavor and nutrients, complementing the soup’s ingredients.Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a refreshing bite that pairs wonderfully.Caprese Salad
Layers of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a rich but light side dish.Stuffed Peppers
Peppers filled with quinoa or rice mixed with veggies make for a filling side that works well with minestrone.Cheesy Garlic Knots
Soft knots brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with cheese add an indulgent touch that’s perfect for dipping.Crispy Potato Wedges
Seasoned baked potato wedges serve as a satisfying crunchy side that kids love too.Herbed Couscous
Fluffy couscous infused with herbs provides an interesting contrast in texture while being light enough to not overpower the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Sauté: Failing to sauté onions and garlic can lead to a bland flavor. Always start by cooking these ingredients until they are golden and fragrant.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Adding vegetables too early might make them mushy. Add delicate veggies like zucchini and corn closer to the end of cooking for better texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning Levels: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can result in a dull soup. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can ruin the broth’s flavor. Choose high-quality canned fire-roasted tomatoes for a richer taste.
- Not Allowing Time for Flavors to Develop: Rushing through cooking time means flavors won’t meld properly. Allow the soup to simmer long enough for all ingredients to combine beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
- Freeze in portions for easy meals later.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; use freezer-safe containers.
Reheating Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup.
What makes this minestrone soup better than Olive Garden’s?
This version uses fresh seasonal vegetables and high-quality fire-roasted tomatoes, enhancing its flavor profile significantly compared to restaurant versions.
Can I customize Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand.
How do I make this minestrone soup vegan?
Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure no animal-derived products are used.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative; just add them according to their cooking time.
How long does it take to make Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?
The total time is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta types, making it suitable for any occasion. Don’t hesitate—give this hearty recipe a try today!
Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Better than Olive Garden Minestrone Soup, a hearty and nutritious delight perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. This vibrant and flavorful soup is packed with fresh seasonal vegetables, protein-rich beans, and small pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it alongside toasted bread or grilled cheese sandwiches, this homemade minestrone delivers a satisfying experience with each spoonful. Embrace the versatility of this recipe by customizing it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy days.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 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 Cups Red Kidney Beans (Boiled (13.5oz canned beans))
- 1.5 Teaspoons Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Oregano
- 1 Teaspoon Thyme
- 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional)
- 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (Better if you can find Fire Roasted Diced)
- 4 Cups Vegetable Broth
- 1 Cup Mini Shells (You can also use Ditallini, Mini Elbow shaped Pasta, Orzo or Bulgar)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté bay leaves, onion, and garlic until golden.
- Add diced carrots and celery; mix well before incorporating zucchini, corn, and French beans.
- Season with oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, and sugar; stir to combine.
- Add mini pasta and fire-roasted tomatoes to the pot.
- Pour in vegetable broth and allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until pasta and veggies are tender.
- Once thickened (approximately 15-20 minutes), garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for enhanced flavor. Feel free to add extra seasonal vegetables for additional nutrition. Experiment with different types of pasta to change texture.