Are you a fan of Olive Garden's Minestrone Soup but wish you could make it at home? This Minestrone Soup Copycat Recipe will guide you through recreating the comfort of this beloved soup right in your kitchen. Not only does it bring the flavors of Olive Garden to your table, but it's also packed with nutrients making it both delicious and healthy. Here, we'll explore why this soup is a favorite, how to gather ingredients, the step-by-step cooking process, and how to enhance it with your personal touch.
Why You'll Love Olive Garden's Minestrone
Olive Garden's Minestrone Soup is renowned for its hearty mix of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. Here's why it's a must-try:
- Versatile: Perfect for all seasons, it's comforting on cold days and refreshing on warm ones.
- Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables, it provides a range of vitamins and minerals.
- Family-Friendly: Its familiar flavors make it a hit among all ages, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Ingredients for Your Copycat Minestrone
Let's start with the essentials for your homemade Olive Garden Minestrone:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Extra Virgin Olive Oil |
| 1 cup | White Onion, diced |
| 1/2 cup | Celery, diced |
| 1/2 cup | Carrots, diced |
| 1/2 cup | Zucchini, diced |
| 2 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| 4 cups | Vegetable Broth |
| 1 can (14.5 oz) | Diced Tomatoes with juice |
| 1/2 cup | Green Beans, cut |
| 1 can (15 oz) | Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed |
| 1 can (15 oz) | Great Northern Beans, drained and rinsed |
| 1 cup | Small Shell Pasta |
| 1 tsp | Italian Seasoning |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| 2 cups | Fresh Spinach, coarsely chopped |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh Parsley, chopped |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh Basil, chopped |
| Parmesan Cheese | For serving (optional) |
💡 Note: For a vegetarian soup, use vegetable broth. For additional flavor, chicken broth can be used instead.
The Step-by-Step Guide
Here's how to transform these ingredients into your delicious copycat Minestrone:
1. Prep the Vegetables
Start by preparing all your vegetables:
- Dice the onion, celery, carrots, and zucchini.
- Mince the garlic.
- Chop the parsley and basil.
- Cut the green beans into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Build the Broth
Now, pour in the vegetable broth, the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans, great northern beans, and green beans. Stir everything well, ensuring the beans are distributed evenly.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Add Pasta and Season
After simmering, add the small shell pasta and Italian seasoning. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the pasta is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish with Fresh Greens
Stir in the chopped spinach, parsley, and basil. Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes so the spinach wilts and the herbs infuse their flavors.
Enhance Your Minestrone
To elevate your soup, consider these variations:
- Herbs: Instead of dried, use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste.
- Beans: Swap one bean type for another, like cannellini or black beans for variety.
- Broth: Opt for homemade vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
💡 Note: Remember that pasta will absorb liquid as it sits, so you might want to cook it separately and add it just before serving if you plan to have leftovers.
Storing Your Soup
Your homemade Minestrone will keep:
- In the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen.
So now, every time the craving for Olive Garden's Minestrone Soup hits, you can whip up your own, tailored to your tastes and dietary needs. This recipe captures the essence of that beloved dish, providing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. It's a perfect dish to make ahead, freeze for busy days, or simply enjoy as a wholesome meal.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
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Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything except the pasta and fresh greens to the cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.
What can I substitute for white onion?
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You can use yellow onions, shallots, or even a few green onions for a milder flavor if white onions are not available.
Can I add meat to this Minestrone?
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Yes, for a meatier version, add cooked ground beef or sausage with the vegetables at the beginning of the cooking process.
