Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

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If you’re craving something cozy, wholesome, and packed with flavor, Olive Garden’s Minestrone Soup is a must-try. This iconic Italian-inspired dish is a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, tender pasta, and a savory tomato-based broth. Whether you’re enjoying it as a starter or the main event, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl.

What makes this recipe so appealing is its versatility and nourishing ingredients. It’s naturally vegetarian, easy to make in big batches, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s one of those feel-good meals that tastes even better the next day. You don’t need to be a seasoned cook to pull this off—just gather your ingredients and let the magic simmer on the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

• It’s a one-pot wonder, saving time and dishes.
• Loaded with fiber, plant-based protein, and colorful vegetables.
• Great for family dinners, potlucks, or weekly meal prepping.
• Freezes beautifully for future meals.
• Customizable based on what you have in your fridge or pantry.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use in Minestrone Soup?

Short, bite-sized pasta works best in this recipe. Ditalini, small shells, elbow macaroni, or even mini wheels are great choices because they hold their shape and don’t overwhelm the vegetables. Avoid long noodles, as they can become too soft or tangled in the mix. If you’re planning to freeze the soup, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it in before serving to keep it al dente.

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Ingredients for the Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Each ingredient in this minestrone soup adds a special layer of texture, flavor, and nutrition to the final bowl:

• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding depth to the base.
• Yellow onion: Gives a sweet, aromatic foundation.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses bold, savory flavor.
• Celery & carrots: Classic aromatic duo for heartiness and crunch.
• Zucchini: Adds a tender, fresh bite.
• Green beans: Offer texture and vibrant color.
• Diced tomatoes: The tomato base that brings acidity and richness.
• Tomato paste: Concentrated flavor that thickens the broth.
• Vegetable broth: A flavorful base that keeps it vegetarian.
• Red kidney beans & cannellini beans: Add protein and creaminess.
• Baby spinach or kale: For a pop of green and a nutritional boost.
• Italian seasoning: The key to that classic Italian taste.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
• Small pasta (like ditalini): Gives the soup its signature heartiness.

How To Make the Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Seasoning

Toss in the green beans, zucchini, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine everything well.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Beans

Add the vegetable broth, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Greens

Stir in the pasta and let it cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. A few minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the spinach or kale.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

This hearty soup serves about 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or weekly lunches. Serve it hot straight from the pot with a chunk of rustic bread or a slice of warm garlic toast on the side. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or even a grilled sandwich.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’ve added pasta, it may absorb more broth over time, so consider adding a splash of water or broth when reheating. For freezing, leave the pasta out and add fresh-cooked pasta when reheating for best texture.

What to Serve With Olive Garden Minestrone Soup?

Garlic Bread

Golden and buttery garlic bread is the classic partner for this soup.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons balances the warm, hearty soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A melty, golden grilled cheese turns your soup into a cozy meal.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables or Brussels sprouts add extra fiber and richness.

Italian Antipasto Platter

Pair it with a platter of olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Baked Zucchini Fries

Crunchy and light, zucchini fries complement the veggies in the soup.

Simple Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella bring brightness and balance.

Herb Focaccia

Soft, herby focaccia is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this minestrone soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as you skip the Parmesan cheese garnish or use a dairy-free version, this soup is completely vegan.

Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh vegetables add more texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, canned can be a good alternative—just be sure to drain them well.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No problem! You can mix your own using equal parts of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, just sauté the aromatics first, then add everything except the pasta and greens into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Stir in the pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra vegetables or change up the pasta? Did you serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad?
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Conclusion

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup is the perfect recipe to keep in your rotation year-round. It’s healthy, hearty, and endlessly flexible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer for busy nights, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. Warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor—it’s a timeless classic you’ll come back to again and again.

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