Description
A hearty, Italian-inspired minestrone soup recipe reminiscent of Olive Garden’s famous dish. Enjoy a flavorful blend of fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta in a comforting broth that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium zucchini, cubed
2 cups tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prep and Sauté:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add Vegetables:
Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the cubed zucchini and tomatoes.
Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable broth, sprinkle in the dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finish the Soup:
Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans along with the small pasta. Simmer for an additional 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Just before serving, fold in the fresh basil.
Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty or garlic bread on the side.
Notes
Consistency Adjustments: If the soup is too thick, add a splash more broth or water. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Protein Variations: For a heartier version, consider adding shredded chicken or browned Italian sausage.
Dietary Tweaks: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa for gluten-free and vegan options.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Olive Garden, Minestrone Soup, Italian Soup Recipe, Comfort Food
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Olive Garden, Minestrone Soup, Italian Soup Recipe, Comfort Food